My Writing Retreat In The Woods ✨💻 Editing My 30th Novel

[@Avionne_Parris]

Talk about Spooktacular Challenge: Staying in a cabin in the woods while writing a spooky novel set in a cabin? I held my breath that first day you set out your work on the table and thought, "Why is she sitting with her back to the door?" Then I thought, "at least she'll see the person on camera." Parking your car in front so you could press the alarm was brilliant! The cabin is BEAUTIFUL though :) So glad we made it through! Thanks so much for the pep talk about not giving up and to keep writing, Sarra. Seeing your success has been so inspiring and it's something I've held onto for a long time. I will make it and be published one day and your videos, resources, and encouragement will be reason why. Can't wait for part 2!

[@christinecortese9973]

I actually live in a cabin in the woods. Number one, I have drapes and blinds! Number two, I put solar lights way out into the trees so it doesn’t just seem like a mass of darkness. Aside from that, it’s the best place to concentrate and write!

[@SarraCannon]

@@christinecortese9973 yes!! I also grew up in a log cabin in the middle of the woods! I was never scared at home, but I think just being alone in a place I'd never been to was contributing

[@authorericar.stinson4849]

The minute she went into this gorgeous house and I noted the absence of blinds/curtains, I knew what would happen. I am very funny about not having my blinds open at night. I also have a severe anxiety disorder, so I definitely understand. I would have to at least have a white noise machine or something at night lol, but other than that I like it quiet. I have ADHD and Autism as well, so I struggle with sensory issues, particularly with noise.

[@suzisaintjames]

I do get aways to a beautiful rented cabin in the woods similar to yours. It's also 3-4 hours away. Deer even come up into the yard to feed. But it's aways the same cabin. I mention this because like you, the first night is a little rough, the ice crashes into it's empty tray and the sound echos through the lofted ceilings. And if there's kids in the other side of the duplex, I sleep in the other bedroom, except the refrigerator is on the other side of the wall as the headboard and the first couple of times I awake when the motor kicks on. If it bothers me too much, I sleep in the loft. Luckily, in almost 40 visits of going there, I've never had to sleep on the sofa bed. My point is: by staying at the same place, I settle in much easier and faster. I know where everything is located. It's the same dishes, the same white towels. I know which of my comfort items to bring... Like my cast iron fry pan with lid. Yes, they have a non-stick aluminum fry pan, but I know my cast iron. I bring an extension cord so I can plug in when working from bed. I take an ice chest so I take condiments and other refrigerator items that are soooo expensive in those little jars and I can bring home leftovers. So I pack somethings in mason jars to take, so I have containers to bring left overs home. They have salt and pepper, but I'm used to the flow of mine. Of course, I couldn't bring all of this if I would fly to my destination, but why not use the space in your car anyway. Soooo👍 to bringing your bed pillow! I brought mine a few years, but there's sooo many pillows on the king bed that I just don't need it. Another thing I do after unloading the car, is to try to take a nap. Even if I don't fall asleep, this lay down helps me to transition from my home life and the road trip to my new situation. I think it also allows my body to relax and adjust to the 6000 feet increase in elevation. It helps my mind to fill it's decision making tank. I guess going to the same place over and over, eliminates a lot of decisions too. I know which chair I sit in for dinner, where I like to sit for breakfast coffee. Which bathroom I use. Decisions I can use in my project instead. I also plan my meals before I leave home. It's like you said in planning for Prep-tober... plan your meal and your clothes so those decisions are already made and you can use you decisions for creativity instead of self care. 💕🌞🌵😷

[@authorericar.stinson4849]

It's my dream to do exactly this. Somewhere gorgeous(and quiet)where I can write in peace. Hope you had a blast!(and made your word count goals)

[@ashleyemma4954]

I'm reading this book now (loving it!!!) so seeing your process while writing it is interesting! Also that cabin is gorgeous 😍

[@janetburnett3935]

Thank you for showing your progress, and particularly for showing your challenges. Seeing the way you handle when things don't go as you planned, yet still making progress encourages me in my own path. Thanks for being so honest and vulnerable in this adventure!

[@AuntieExtrasCrafts]

I have an anxiety disorder and it makes normal moments of joy clouded. I get it. I'll feel like everything doesn't happen right the way I want it to, that everything falls apart and I'm working on my impulse to give mental energy to the worst possible scenario

[@foxsbestlaidplans]

omg girl as a fellow solo traveler, I FEEL YOU. 'omg this place is perfect, i'm going to get so much writing done!' ::5 minutes later:: WHAT WAS THAT SOUND?? ::fast forward to me binge watching disney and pixar movies all night to try to sleep:: thank you for taking us on this adventure with you!! and congrats on all the progress! so excited we get to read vanessa shaw soon! :)

[@SarraCannon]

@@foxsbestlaidplans this is such a relatable comment lol

[@michellefrostwrites]

Your writing retreat vlogs are always a fave! So cool to see your process and go on these adventures with you ❤

[@maryjocampbell6019]

Omg Sarra!😮 I think this was my fav video of yours yet! Spooky gorgeous cabin in the woods, writing talk, plot challenges and switch ups, listening to you share your struggles and immense joy… ah! You are such an inspiration to us writers. I’m still plotting my YA witchy novel and this gives me hope! ❤Also, hilarious that you had to leave in middle of the night! But don’t blame you. Cannot wait to read this book TDOVS🎉🎉

[@SusanGHaws]

The way your epiphany came about was enlightening and encouraging.

[@vanessaprestoncreative]

What a wonderful vlog of your retreat, thankyou so much for taking time to film and share it! I quoted you in my Commonplace notebook "Just because it's hard doesn't mean it can't be joyful ... I have to take a moment in the midst of the hard, to also express great gratitude that I get to live this life that I once only dreamed of." Absolutely! Q3 was hard for me with very debilitating illness and pain, and extreme stress and anxiety, but there were still so many moments of connection, triumph, revelation, peace, comfort, achievement, hope and personal growth. I always love to count the little wins and blessings, which make everything else easier to endure. I can get scared anywhere, and would not have coped with uncovered windows ... I'd be taping up sheets to make sure nobody can see in, and reading a cosy MG school story to comfort myself. Driving on outback roads in the dark is another brand of scary!! Well done achieving so many words written and plot breakthroughs.

[@wrestlingwithdisney]

Parfait of accomplishment 😂😂❤❤

[@SarraCannon]

😂

[@SaraLea]

That big fat promotions notebook 😮 I wanna see lol

[@nicholasandheather9488]

Me too!

[@SusanGHaws]

I love watching your process and so appreciate the encouragement for other writers.

[@cfloyd692]

Wow, the way you described your anxiety is exactly what I go through! Thank you for being vulnerable as this really has helped me understand better why I really struggle and war with myself - I am not in my body! I’m in my head. Revelation!

[@SarraCannon]

I'm so sorry you are dealing with this too. My thoughts are with you!

[@ghost-pages]

I think you're smart for taking precautions! Staying alone would be terrifying, I could never do it. Congratulations on finishing your book! And I love your keyboard!!

[@melissasnyder5268]

I love the keyboard too - hopefully they go back in stock at some point.

[@caramullaney2043]

Hi Sarra. Loved this vlog. You are a braver woman than me writing a spooky story alone in the woods. 🤣 I just know I'm going to love this book because you have poured your heart and soul into it. 💕 Oh, and I love the cover! ❤️

[@mizzkain]

OMG. I literally scared myself at one point in this video!!! Around 52:21, I “saw” something IN THE HOUSE, behind Sarra’s right shoulder… as she’s talking about plot, I’d catch a glimpse of it thru the sliding door window…. Finally, about 20 seconds later, I realized it was her arm!! Lol😅 Whew. 😂

[@SarraCannon]

Oh my gosh almost a heart attack reading this comment lol

[@uninterupptedwriter]

Literally came to the comments looking for this! I scared myself as well!!

[@foxsbestlaidplans]

i saw the same thing!! i was like 'nooooo it's behind you!!' 🤣

[@curiositystoryer]

Loved this video. So proud of your progress and thank you for including us on your journey! I’m a flight attendant and I can tell you when I’m done with a block of trips, day 1 off needs to be filled with rest, Day 2 I have more energy, but Day 3 is go-time. Which aligns with what you experienced. It’s good data for you ♥️

[@theamericangeek]

Congrats on your spooky short-lived very productive writing getaway! :-) Just a little thanks for all that you do and for all that you share. I got teary watching you get teary! Much appreciation, Sarra.

[@SarraCannon]

Oh wow, this is so kind of you and a beautiful surprise! Thank you so much!!!!

[@celinevaillant5275]

You know, Sarra, despite all you show us about how hard things can be for a writer, even one as accomplished as you, I think we all still draw inspiration from you. Despite how hard this retreat was for you, it gave me the inspiration I needed to kick my butt into gear to get back to edits on my book when I was feeling overwhelmed by it. There feels like there's still so much to do, even with how far I've already come, but it feels like a mountain of work still. I just need to tackle it one chapter, one page, one paragraph at a time. And I know I'll feel much better when the work is just done. You're an inspiration to us all! And I bet it was super spooky being out there by yourself.

[@elliestephenson4146]

Staying in a cabin in the woods whilst literally writing a murder mystery. You’re mad! I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry for you. What an adventure, though! Thank you for sharing and sending an anti-anxiety hug ❤

[@psychedianic]

You've achieved the Dream, for sure. Keep going!🎉

[@sabahnait872]

Wow, the house is so gorgeous. But I am incapable for staying there alone😂. Thank you for this inspiring videos and sharing the process with us. Looking forward to part 2. Hugs and much love from Vienna❤❤❤

[@karenvigmostad4013]

In my view keeping one's everyday schedule in terms of time to bed and time to get up is vital. Personally, I focus on flowing. So sorry you are having anxiety! I've been in psychotherapy several times a week for years that has made life so lovely. Hugs.

[@mariahsmall487]

Sarra, you were “Little Red Riding Hood” in the woods, finishing the book and the anxiety was your wolf and you slayed it!!! 🎉🎉

[@SarraCannon]

@@mariahsmall487 🐺 love it!

[@msmwriter]

I totally get the anxiety thing. I didn't have it until around my late 40s. It hit me like a truck. I still struggle at times, but since coming through menopause it has been a little better. We soldier on. I'd also like to thank you for what you said about it being hard work, yet still being fun. Now, whenever I find it hard, I will think of you and remember to experience the fun of it all. 💜 You were a brave soul staying there alone. As a horror writer, I don't think I could do it. lol

[@keertanaanand2451]

This a total dream but also nightmare fodder😂😂

[@madisonmaya94]

This is a gem for me because a 'woman alone in a cabin in the woods' is literally the setting of my book BECAUSE of the creep factor lol I'm giddy about this vlog

[@SarraCannon]

Oooh perfect!!!

[@EvaWright]

Good luck! My daughter and I just bought the arm chair pillows. They are super comfy. I'd probably lock myself in the bathroom where nothing can see in or me seeing 👀 out to get distracted.🌺

[@theghostrainbow1864]

Regarding whether losing cell service is realistic - I live in Los Angeles and there are multiple areas where cell service is awful. :)

[@selenastevenson4256]

Even though it had a cabin in the woods spooky vibe, it was a very nice cabin. Thanks for all you do!!

[@bahora3]

Really excited for your progress! Your commitment to push through and complete this book is so inspiring! Also, that cabin is so gorgeous!!

[@lashellcollins1172]

I love this video so much! From your sharing the spooky moments of being in a cabin in the woods alone to all the encouragement for other writers out there like me. Congratulations on finishing the book. I can't wait to read it!

[@joannaholden943]

We just visited Broken Bow for the first time this year and I fell in love with how beautiful it is! I can imagine it is pure inspiration to stay in such a gorgeous location to write! ❤ Thank you for sharing this trip with us

[@JadeJuniiper]

Watching this in parts and only 15 min in but… this just might be the most fun vlog I’ve ever watched. I can’t wait to watch more later as a reward for getting my next scene done.

[@woodlandlady7011]

I was umming and ahhing, nodding and whooping along with this blog, Sarra, what a ride. Happy you have your writing mojo back

[@tashagaines8458]

Girl! I’m so proud of you!! Not just for staying alone in that cabin (brave girl) but for pushing through and finding your moxie! Can’t wait to read this book! ❤

[@SM-yd8hq]

You know what we need? A writing retreat getaway. I would fly from Australia for that! You're so brave to conquer your fears.

[@jenniferevelynhayes]

Ahhhh, loved this! I’m so grateful that you continue to share the vulnerable moments and the struggles with anxiety because so many of us experience those challenges too. (My hand is raised high!) It felt so incredible to watch you light up when the epiphanies happened during this retreat and they reminded me of how amazing those moments feel and make all the hard work worth it!! I can’t wait to see part two of the vlog and to read this book!!! So happy for youuuuu!! ❤❤❤❤❤🎉❤🎉❤🎉❤🎉

[@christinaayala5993]

Also, P.S. I was cracking up that you were writing a spooky book in a spooky place. I’m a scaredy cat with an active imagination, I’d be freaking out too bahaha.

[@corinablair3336]

I love vlogs they are quickly becoming my favorite 😍

[@samarawinters]

the cover at the end omg 🙌 I love it!!!!!

[@ayeletelbaz9060]

Sarra, I’ve been watching your videos for quite a while. I’m finally commenting, and just want to thank you for the amount of help and encouragement your videos and methods have given me over the past 2+ years. And I’m now inspired to create my own “solo writing retreat.” Even your setbacks are helpful because they prepare me for accepting that things won’t go perfectly as planned. God bless and much luck with finishing the book! ❤

[@mistyd0116]

That's when you know it's good, when you scare your own self - I love moments like that

[@jchaley9076]

You are sooo brave! My husband's family is from Broken Bow and I won't travel through the Kiamichi mountains without him.

[@kokoro_flow]

Congrats on finishing TDOVS! That cabin is beautiful! I would be scared to be alone in a cabin the woods, especially if I was writing a thriller / mystery / etc, though!

[@mrsiz218]

Girl!! I so feel you on the anxiety!! It’s no joke! It can be paralyzing for me at times! HUGS❤ I love the cabin though! It’s so pretty! I also love the gemstones! Just ordered them!

[@CM-fo2he]

Congratulations on finishing your book Sarah!

[@immaliemelmoth924]

Thank you from France for sharing this so true and intense. It gave me goosebumps in a good way and it's so inspiring!!!! I can't wait for part 2 !!

[@legalgirl1313]

Congrats Girl! You’ve worked sooooo hard and deserve everything 💪💪💓💓💓

[@cassiemerson7789]

"I don't want to put together a cheap dollar tree puzzle" -- greatest line of the vlog. Thank you for sharing this with us! Such a great insight into your experience, gorgeous house but yes giving creepy vibes alone at night. Also there are so many places in Maine with no cell service😆 totally believable!

[@CM_Marquez008]

Such a great vlog! Love all of your writing retreat vlogs but this one was my favorite. Congratulations on finishing The Disapearance of Vanessa Shaw, super excited to read it!

[@adelaparkes941]

What a stunning location, thank you for sharing 😍

[@Laura-ti2tm]

OMG you left us on a cliffhanger!!! It's so brave of you to share your emotional retreat, I have ups and downs with my writing too and watching this was so motivating. Thank you for reminding us to listen to our bodies and to be flexible about our goals ❤

[@rachelfangoria]

the cabin was gorgeoussss!! loved seeing your process, you're so organized 😅 congrats on finishing the book ❤❤❤

[@loridee21]

Holy Smokes that place is beautiful!!!! My house would fit on that back porch--seriously!

[@SarahHualde]

So excited to see your trip. One day I'm aiming for trips such as yours just to write and marinate in my fictional worlds.

[@carolsikes5069]

Wow. That house was gorgeous!

[@ShayALaMode]

I’m so proud of you Sarra!

[@SMMapleAuthor]

This was so good!! There's a story telling structure to the whole vlog, with call backs and triumphs and losses. I was losing my mind seeing you come to a dark moment epiphany *about the dark moment epiphany in your story!!!* I am so hyped for this book, I cannot wait! Happy 30th novel!!!

[@SarraCannon]

❤❤❤

[@KylieStewart_Author]

If my hair air dried as good as yours I'd be so happy! LOL Yay for Vanessa Shaw and bonus for doing it afraid in the woods! Those windows are gorgeous but a big nope for me being alone. You're way braver then I am LOL

[@jeanelarson]

I am all the more excited to read this book knowing that you stuck with it until it felt right to you. 💗📖

[@staceyshillingburg7966]

I 100% get every single one of those vibes and emotions you went through. Well done! Also my glass Witches Brew cup is on its way. Yay!

[@memphistnliving]

Hello sarra lists of colors very colorful as always😂😂

[@thatdannielle]

Love this! Yay for spooky cabin writing! 👻 So excited to read the book. :)

[@ShailaMasterson]

Wow what a trip you had. I loved seeing what all it takes to do what you love and I’m so excited to read this one!

[@shellsandwood]

LOVED this video! Thank you for bringing us along on your journey. So inspiring!

[@michym80]

I always love and appreciate your words of encouragement! They seem to pull me out of my slumps when I need them most. So, thank you for that. 💜✨And I'm super excited for TDOVS! Can't wait!✨💜

[@jenller]

Damn I was waiting for the intro song of the Shining while you were driving

[@SarraCannon]

😂

[@LM-yn7sv]

I’m so excited for this book! Also, you bring me so much joy! You give off the most positive vibes, and your videos are such a blessing ❤️

[@christinaayala5993]

😮😮😮is that cover?! It’s absolutely beautiful 😍! Loved the vlog and I’m pumped for this book !

[@CM-fo2he]

😂 lol! Love that you brought Ghost Hello Kitty to hang out with you.

[@SarraCannon]

Haha perfect companion

[@45roadbiker]

Loved this blog. Love your writers drive! So much fun! I go on a solo retreat every year in Aug as a retired teacher. I love resetting myself and seeing which projects to keep and which to let go of, and seeing what is new. Good for you taking this time!

[@HeatherHS07]

Loved this vlog!! Perfect for Preptober!!

[@NataliFourie]

Love the set up! I bought my kids the timer cube since you showed it, they love it, and it comes in lots of colours!! Also you're super brave staying there alone.... i would have been ok if i had taken my dog with - he is a german shepherd X labrador, looks scary but is a big baby 😍

[@LeahWriter]

Oh Sarra, what a bummer that you were tortured at various point of your retreat. At about 51 min, your hand reflection in the window freaked me out lmao I hope your retreat at home was more comfortable. Side note: I love your lap table set up. I need one!

[@SaraLea]

I’ve been waiting for this video :) my favorite kind right now.

[@RomanticizeReality]

I love your tokidoki bag!

[@SarraCannon]

Thank you!!

[@cl_shaner]

I loved this video! the music was perfect for the spooky vibe. Your setup and planning is so motivating!

[@JadeJuniiper]

I cracked up when you mentioned you’d have no idea what you’d do if there was actually a man back there because when I lived in the states I checked too but really…what would I do??? Hahah SUCH a fun vlog. I literally savored it.

[@juliae.8237]

Congratulations!

[@sarah_c_brody]

Hi everyone! Excited for this vlog!

[@Bookishly_jo]

39:16 as a woman, this is purely logical! Gotta take steps to keep yourself safe!

[@JustCallMeInsane]

Fun story: b/f and I would go to families property where it was so dark, a full moon would light up the road as if it were the sun itself. We had one sorta nearby neighbor, and the rest were a good few miles away at best. He joked about zombies and how spooky it was when we were outside taking photos of the sky, until we heard what sounded like kids laughing. I thought 'maybe this is just a far echo from one of those other homes far out'. Logic said real fast that wasn't possible, and it got louder. It was coyotes. There was a pack of coyotes near us and we RAN back into that house let me tell you. 😂

[@SarraCannon]

Ooh my gosh I would have peed my pants lol

[@one_smol_duck]

My last house (rented) had a giant window on the front door, and the front door opened directly to the living room. I lived there for four years and it freaked me out the whole time.

[@authorrachelmorton]

I can't wait to read this book. I'm so excited for it and it comes out at my birthday week, so yay. I would also be the same as you alone in the woods. We're writers, our minds can come up with the most terrifying things. That's why we're good at stories :) Not so good when alone at night, in a spooky vibe place. The place is beautiful, though.

[@susanbuckminster282]

Thank you!

[@kimikobuford]

Hi 👋🏽 Sarra. Sometimes I forget that we’re in the same state. Now I want some Buc’ees. Good luck and positive vibes ❤🖤💜

[@KHicks697]

Oooh stunning

[@breemlew]

Honestly, so jealous! I want to do something like this so bad!

[@michellej1372]

I love your writing vlog retreats. I look forward to your next one, which I’m guessing will be in a hotel room 😂. No way would I go to cabin in the woods. You’re brave. It looks a gorgeous place though.

[@AuthorJenniferNAdams]

That place is NICE!!

[@LeahWriter]

I can't believe I got the time wrong for this 😭 At least I was doing something productive...cleaning my car. But still bummed LOL

[@SarraCannon]

I'm so sorry! Yay for clean car! Haha

[@thekatwhobewriting2757]

I love this! I stayed in Broken Bow and it was great! What's the portable travel camera you use?

[@wrestlingwithdisney]

That marker looks amazing haha what kind is it?! It writes so smooth!!!

[@SarraCannon]

It's a sharpie flip chart marker!

[@uninterupptedwriter]

This is why I can't write anything too spooky! I'm way too sensitive. I was getting creeped out for you!!

[@debbiestherapy]

Is that the same cabin in the woods you stayed at last time ? It seems different. It’s gorgeous!

[@SarraCannon]

I can't think of another cabin I've stayed in before this unless it was years ago!

[@debbiestherapy]

@@SarraCannon OMG did I dream it? I’ll try to find it but you were at the cabin- looked like this one- lots of glass- you had said there were some teens partying or driving making noise late or something that was scary and also that you parked in front so you could set off car alarm if needed then too….. it could have been a dream- I do sometimes literally dream things b4 they happen but it’s never happened with someone I haven’t met- lol)

[@SarraCannon]

@@debbiestherapy that was this place so maybe you were watching stories? This was my August trip!

[@Sara-dr6iu]

❤