My goals for my writing retreat, 2018 edition, were pretty simple:
- Get at least 10,000 words written in Translations, preferably more like 12,500.
- Do some astrophotography and just general photography.
- Do some kayaking and bike riding.
How’d I do?
At the start of the week, my novel sat at 65, 968 words. As I write this, I’ve just crossed the 80,000–word mark. So I managed 14,055 new words in this first draft. I’m happy with that—especially considering that I essentially took Friday off from writing.
Also, I got a pile of photos taken. I had hoped for some good shots of the Milky Way, but the moon was nearing full, so the skies were too bright for that. I did get a couple nice star-trail shots, though.
Star trails above a pond and field, near Minnedosa, MB. 
Star trails above what appears to be an abandoned house 
A sunflower looks back at me, while all the rest face the sun 
I think these might be chokecherries, but I’m not sure enough to try and eat them. 
Bison at Minnedosa 
A bit of a light show, between Minnedosa and Erickson 
As the sun set, it lit the clouds to the east.
I also went to Winnipeg, for Chadwick’s book launch, and had a lovely chat in the evening with Mike & Michelle, a couple friends I haven’t seen in a long time.
As far as kayaking—well, the weather didn’t cooperate. It was consistently around 20°C here this week, which is a bit chilly to go out on the lake. It’s supposed to hit 27 or 28 Monday, but by then I’ll be back at the office. I did go for a few bike rides, which was nice, and as I write this on Sunday, I’m planning one more before I pack up and leave.
So, on the whole, I’m going to call Writing Retreat 2018 a success. It’s been a productive, fun, glorious time, and I’m going to miss it.
Same time next year.
Interested in prints of my photos? Let me know, and we can work something out.