The first Cagibi Writing Retreat took place in the Hudson Valley the third weekend of October 2018, and what a weekend it was! Thank you to workshop leaders Matt Pasca and Terri Muss, readers Beverly Donofrio and Nick Flynn (and his band Killdeer), and to all of our participants for making this such a memorable experience.

From participants:

“I arrived at the Cagibi writer’s retreat with an open mind and was pleasantly surprised. The organizers were extremely welcoming. The facilitators set the tone for a safe, supportive and creative environment. I left with some new work and with ideas for how to bring my current project to fruition. My writing colleagues were some of the most considerate, talented and interesting people one could only hope with which to share this experience.”

“I found the retreat very rewarding and worthwhile. There was a very friendly and communal atmosphere. I would recommend the retreat and would seriously consider doing it again.”

“I felt like I was able to share freely things I wrote, whether they were lukewarm, hot and emotional, or silly. I would certainly recommend applying for this retreat. I will remember this trip, the other participants, and my time with Cagibi for a long while.”

“Cagibi created a perfect environment. I came out feeling motivated and reinvigorated. I came out with specific action steps. Do not change a thing!”

“I felt able to engage with and learn from not only the excellent facilitators and organizers, but the participants. It seemed that the organizers cared about having a well-balanced mix of poets and prose writers, published and unpublished, and this blend of talent and skill provided for learning that happened in between workshops and talks. The setting was perfect for writing and reflection, scenic views and very little interruption from the outside world.”

“I believe now that I can, with work and practice, become published, and I understand how to move forward in my craft. I will definitely attend a Cagibi retreat again, it was the highlight of my year!”

“I am so thankful for this opportunity to write, share, and listen to fellow writers in such a supportive setting. I made new friends, wrote new poems, and came away with fresh ideas about my projects and purpose as a writer.  I also loved the location, what a charming house! The campfire was really the icing on the cake, and a perfect Saturday night activity. I hope to participate in a retreat like this again!”

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