Happy Monday!

A very happy shout out to my son-in-law on his birthday today! Raising this birthday frappuccino for you, Justin 🙂 And just in case any of you want to give it a try, here’s the recipe. 

I’m on deadline for COLD SHOT’s revisions and have heard about author friends taking a deadline writing retreat, so I thought ‘why not?’ I booked a room for three days at the beach and set off. It ended up being a very productive and interesting three days. Here’s a few tips for anyone considering doing the same:

1. Pick a non-trafficky time to travel, especially if you live in a metro area. Listening to an audio book is a great way to pass the time. I enjoyed Becky Wade‘s A Love Like Ours.

2. Start out each day with a good breakfast and lots of coffee.

3. Get a comfortable place to write–shade included.

4. Put your toes in the sand–instant relaxation.

5. Take time to watch the surfers.

6. Take time to watch the sunset.

7. Enjoy the air show. I had no idea the air show was this weekend, but I had the pleasure of watching the Blue Angels practice for two days. It was awesome!!!!!

Here’s a short video:

IMG_5915

8. Do NOT lock yourself out of your hotel room in your P.J.s.

Sorry, folks, no embarrassing photo here–thank, goodness 🙂

9. Always pack cute P.J.s in case the above happens.

10. Make sure you stay somewhere with a good source of coffee. My hotel had a Starbucks in the lobby. Wish that was my cup!

Hope you enjoyed these tips even if you’re not on a writing retreat. They apply to any trip, especially beach trips. Anyone have a fun trip planned this summer?

Blessings,