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Sawtooth Writing Retreat

 B fearless

Over a weekend in September (9/18-21) I was fortunate enough to attend the Sawtooth Writing Retreat 17 miles outside of Ketchum, in central Idaho. When I first arrived on Thursday, the imposter that lives rent free in my head shouted, FLEE! I'm very grateful to say that I was able mute the imposter's voice and connected with writers, all in various places in their writing journeys. It was such a memorable experience!

I participated in workshops lead by knowledgeable, published authors, attended a fascinating panel discussion about wildfires, and screwed up my courage to participate in open-mic night by reading an original creative work near and dear to my heart, It's Our Nature. The piece has bits of introspection mingled with humor, and I was overjoyed when people laughed in the appropriate places. I have been told my voice within the piece lends to its authenticity. (I will share this piece of creative writing another time.)

My favorite part had to be viewing the night sky through professional telescopes. For some, this is a once in a lifetime experience, and this one was guided by experienced astronomers from the Physics Department at Boise State University. The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is the first International Dark Sky Reserve in the U.S.

I drove highway 20, both directions, and enjoyed the sights of rural Idaho. I am so grateful to have had this weekend of personal growth and professional development, and hope to attend next year.

Pictures from my amazing writer's weekend–

1300 W US-20, Hill City, ID 83337
Corral School west of Fairfield, Idaho

Not a great image, but a truly great moment
of peace and solitude while everyone else slept.

Me having a little fun with the antique typewriter set up in the lodge of the secluded camp.
"All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy."

Through a telescope and with my phone, I captured
an intimate moment as two spiral galaxies merge. 
This is my favorite picture from the weekend.
I feel small, and by comparison, surprisingly relevant.

The Andromeda Galaxy

The coming dawn of my last day.

Stopped to have a drink with Papa Hemingway 
on my way home

Main Street, any small town, USA.















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