Work of the Waves

Soothing the Creators in Winter Solstice Season

December 8 – 10, 2023

Take a load off your feet. The waves will do their work without you.” –a bench by the ocean in Yachats, Oregon

We put so much attention on what we’re doing or not doing as writers and creators; we focus hard on our hard work. Truly, though, the best things in life come to us as if on a tide. This happens serendipitously when we stand still, exactly where we need to be.

The story goes that in 1922, Robert Frost was working on the poem, “New Hampshire,” in Shaftsbury Vermont. He stayed up all night feverishly trying to complete it. He realized it was morning when the sun streamed in, and he got up to gaze at the sunrise. Suddenly he had a flash of inspiration for a new poem. What he wrote flowed perfectly, “in just a few minutes, without strain.” It was to be his most famous work, “Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening.”

It wasn’t Frost’s conscious labors, but the flow of restful creativity that brought this beloved poem into the world. In the same way, you and I need to lay aside our strivings, especially at the waning of the year, and open our hearts to the creative and transformative discoveries that will ride the tide toward us.

A sign along the Yachats ocean shore is dedicated to the memory of “Maurice,” and “Marija,” who are no longer with us. Though the plaque actually says, “The waves will do their work without you,” I’ve revised it.

Life is so short, so precious. The waves are available to do the work for me, and with me, even now.

A short distance from these engraved words is the place where a small, brave, willing group of writers will accept the invitation to lay down their labors and rest, and be replenished, and let their genius come to them December 8-10.

This is an especially soothing holiday getaway with spa options as well as our signature writing sessions, creative-flow yoga, writerly connections and support, and optional hike at breathtaking Cape Perpetua.

Info

“Work of the Waves,” at the Overleaf Lodge & Spa, a fall writing-nature-yoga retreat.

Two nights at Overleaf Spa and Lodge (cottage or lodge) writing coaching, guided hiking (optional), yoga, movement and breathwork, two brunches, two collaborative dinners, and supplemental virtual writing sessions before and after the retreat, culminating on Winter Solstice, December 21.


Falling into Story

Honeyman State Park Meeting Hall

Friday, October 6, 2023, 11 – 4:30

Who: Women-identified creators

What: Exploring the stories we’ve lived, imagined, longed for, run away from, ignored, been blind to, or told haltingly, and how they interlace with our lives as creative women. From journal entries to to-do lists to poems to I-have-no-idea-what-it-is, stories are found in all the things we touch and make, even if we are not aware.

We will explore images and create a collage, identifying what’s speaking to the subconscious mind. This is a chance for deepening intuition as you move into fall. With heightened awareness we’ll connect to our physical and creative natures, using yoga, writing, breathing and a nature walk for inspiration and well-being. We’ll honor the stories that emerge, feeding imagination, energizing the creative spirit, and basking in a sense of belonging.

Where: Gorgeous Honeyman State Park on Woahink Lake

Cost: $90 for the whole day, 11 – 5:00.

Options: morning only (11 – 1) : $30 / afternoon only (1:30 – 5) $75

Refreshments provided; sack lunch suggested.

 


So You Think You Can’t Write

Clark College, Vancouver, Washington

Saturday, October 21, 11 am – 3 pm

Sunday, October 22, 10 am – 1 pm

It’s thrilling to see the Wildfire process transform our relationship with writing! Over twenty-six years, time and again, would-be writers have found they really do have what it takes; they just didn’t know how to access their Dream Kid, their most imaginative and powerful inner resource. In this workshop you will begin to:

  • Connect authentically
  • Write dynamic, surprising short works
  • Explore groundwork for novels, poems, stories, or essays
  • Awaken the senses
  • Strengthen creative, whole-brain thinking
  • Get centered
  • Take breathing breaks
  • Laugh, allow tears, play
  • Listen to one another

Register here.


Wildfire Writing at the Coast

Lane Community College, Florence Campus

Tuesdays, September 26 – November 7, 3-5 pm (in person)

Register here.


Write at the Light
December 28-30 2024

Cost of $1275 includes two nights lodging at Heceta Head Bed and Breakfast, writing coaching, guided hiking, yoga, movement and breathwork, two seven-course breakfasts, two wine/appetizer afternoons, and three supplemental writing sessions before and after the retreat. You’ll also experience the historic lightkeeper’s house decked out for the holidays, with two fireplace parlors sparkling with fragrant, local Christmas trees.

(Two private rooms available for those who sign up early and request. Or get a deluxe private room for $1800.)

Highlights from Write at the Light 2022 . . .

It was thrilling to spend a weekend honoring winter solstice at an Oregon Coast lighthouse!

We crystallized our writing mission in the darkest season of the year. Stories and poems and words rode to us on the wind over crashing waves. Sea lions somersaulted in the surf below us while we experienced yoga on the deck Saturday morning.

We hiked the lighthouse bluff to Hobbit Beach; we walked a contemplative night walk guided by the sweeping beams of the lighthouse. We were nourished by two seven-course breakfasts; we enjoyed restorative movement and breathing. We lit up.

Our Winter Solstice experience culminated in a virtual session on the night of Winter Solstice.

#writeatthelight2023

Comments from retreats and workshops with Christi:

“Thank you for saving my life.” —Jessica

THANK YOU SO MUCH for . . . . just for having the whole wonderful camp, I cannot emphasize enough how it has made a huge difference to me, not only for writing but also personally.”—Julie

“It was so special to be together in the glass room with such special ladies. You made it happen.” —Arvy

“You’re a great coach. I’ve learned so much from you!” —Marilynne

“Thank you for all your guidance and wisdom; you’ve been so crucial to my continuing writing journey.” —Jon

“Thank you so much for the delightful experience today. It was wonderful to meet so many passionate creative women in one place. I had a great time and hope to participate in the next event.” —Katie

“An epic weekend with the most amazing women. Thanks so much for making it happen!” –JF

Below the Lighthouse


Wild Words Retreat

Comments from the last retreat:

“Thank you for saving my life.” –J.L

“Thank you for having the whole wonderful Wild Words, I cannot emphasize enough how it has made a huge difference to me, not only for writing but also personally.” –J.F.

The Wild Words Retreat is an experience of time to focus on you, finding your center through body, creativity, and voice; through writing, yoga, and nature. Slip into Siltcoos Lake on a kayak. Let the nearby ocean refresh you; find that sweet, perfect writing spot, relish a yoga pose, craft a story or reflection or poem. Find connection with an inspiring, intimate tribe of women as we emerge from the pandemic and personal trauma. Validate that most important creator in your life: you.

Facilitators: Nature and Christi Krug

Where: Dunes City, Oregon

When: Friday-Sunday, August 26-28, 2022

Cost: $600

Mention the secret word: get $15 off

Lodging in a quiet cabin on serene Siltcoos Lake minutes from the Oregon Coast. Two days of guided activities, co-created organic meals, supportive creative coaching, yoga sessions, sharing and renewal.

Register, receive a payment link, or get more info by emailing christi@christikrug.com.


Wild Words Women’s Beach Camp

What: Time away, to focus on you, finding your center through body, creativity, and voice; through writing, yoga, and nature. Let the ocean refresh you, find that sweet, perfect writing spot, relish a yoga pose, craft a story or reflection or poem. Find connection with an inspiring, intimate tribe of women as we emerge from the pandemic and personal trauma. Validate that most important creator in your life: you.

Facilitators: Nature and Christi Krug

Where: Florence, Oregon

When: Thursday-Sunday, July 14-17, 2022

Cost: $450  [or $900 for a cabin to yourself]. We’re full!

Lodging in a brand new, rustic cabin with views of harbor seals and herons at the Oregon Coast; three days of guided activities, co-created organic meals, supportive creative coaching, yoga sessions, beach walks, sharing and renewal.

Register, receive a payment link, or get more info by emailing christi@christikrug.com.


Get Published Class

In 25 years of teaching writing classes, students have asked if I could add information about the ins and outs of getting published. In some of those years, I had a love/hate relationship with my own publishing life. But now I see it differently, and have a new resource for you.

Get answers for questions such as: “How do I know when my story is good enough?” “Where do I send my poem?” “Could I really get published?” “Who do I contact, and how?” You’ll get the lowdown!

A publishing writer is a healthy, happy writer – and I’m all about seeing you succeed. Enjoy a live, personalized experience far more rewarding than a conference seminar or expensive offering, through Clark College. July 11 & 12, 2022: an economical, delightful, two-night, seminar style class for writers who are ready to pursue a publishing dream.

Wildwriting: Meditation for Writers

Are you struggling to keep a mindful and creative outlook on life? Are you a writer curious about meditation? Are you a meditator interested in your pen? Access your fertile idea mind. Breathe and relax and gain keen awareness of your thoughts. Engage in a deep, brief submersion twice a week, providing the bones for a strong practice. You’ll receive dynamic guiding prompts, listening to your body, your creative innocence, and the world around you. Overcome negative and distracting thoughts and let your wisdom flourish. Supporting creative souls, seekers, novelists, journal-keepers, explorers, storytellers, memoirists, poets and artists.

Clark College Class:
Thursday & Sunday evenings online
Thursdays, 5:30 – 6:00 PM
Sundays, 8:00 – 8:30 PM

June 22 – August 24.

Clark Class, Thursday and Sunday; price $125. Nine weeks. Scholarships available. Community learners; safe space. Online learning. Note: the class description reads differently due to a technical glitch. Register or get info.

Wildfire Writing at Clark College

Wednesday evenings online
6:30 – 7:45 PM
June 23 – August 24, 2022

Dance, yoga, or finger-painting for the soul. A multi-dimensional process you can engage in repeatedly. Many students have taken this course four, five, or six times, and it’s exciting have seasoned as well as beginning writers exploring together. We experiment with fiction, nonfiction, memoir writing, and a smattering of poetry. You’ll discover a five-step process that completely revolutionizes the way you approach your writing.

Watch the video. Register for the class.

Wildfire Writing

August 18, 2021

This class is going independent for the summer. Receive private instruction with pre-screened, committed writing comrades. You’ll journey through the five steps of the creative process and reaffirm your identity as a writer. Whether you are new to this practice or returning, this distance-learning class is rich in content and experience. Focus inside and outside the virtual classroom. Get inspiration, support, and accountability, so you can grow in your craft.
Dates: Wednesday evenings, June 16 – July 28
Time:  6:30 – 7:45 pm
Fee: $150.00

Register with a deposit:

WFire

QFire

In difficult times, we are stressed mentally, physically, emotionally, economically. Supports we’ve come to rely on in normal times may not be there for us.

 

Despite all we’re facing, we have inner resources that can meet our challenges.

Writing reveals these inner resources. Enabling us to find strength, calm, creativity, imagination, honesty, and even patience. But we’re not talking ourselves into anything.

What we’re doing is writing the poems and stories and scenes of weakness, frenzy, dullness, blank mind, and total impatience.

Until what arises are those deeper, inner resources which help us to see our way clear, to create and discover.

We find places of deep listening together – and marvelously, we connect and “see” each other.

For the new year, it’s a virtual class focusing on the auditory. As storyteller Clarissa Pinkola Estes says, the body’s auditory system is a neurological system.

You’ll receive sign-in info after registering.

Cancellation policy: you can cancel for any reason before our second meeting (1/12/21) and receive a full refund.

Attend from anywhere on the globe!

When: Tuesday mornings in January and February, 2021

Tuesday class:  1/12, 1/19, 1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23, 3/2

10:15 am – 11:30am

Via Zoom (camera off)

Fee: $225

Early bird $25 discount now through January 8.

To register:

QFire

In our sessions we’ll:

  • Connect authentically
  • Write dynamic, surprising short works
  • Explore groundwork for novels, poems, stories, or essays
  • Awaken the senses
  • Strengthen creative, whole-brain thinking
  • Get centered
  • Take breathing breaks
  • Laugh, allow tears, play
  • Listen to each other


Story Camp: Play! Breathe! Imagine!

Storytelling, playful poetry, make believe. For ages 11 and up. (Adults are welcome, too.)

Fridays, 3 – 4:30 pm 
June 5, 12, 19, 26

When I was a kid, summer camp meant new friends and playing in nature. It seeded the work I do today: helping people of all ages to connect words, ideas and imagination, getting energized by nature and movement, all the while making friends.

There is no greater privilege than to do this work in such an unprecedented time.

Story Camp, back by popular quarantine demand, starts again Friday, June 5, at 3 pm Pacific Time. A virtual camp, fostering creativity and togetherness in kids at heart. We learn fiction and poetry forms, integrate nature appreciation, and take yoga breaks.

Cost: $115 / $100 before May 31
Scholarships Available, please inquire.

Register below:
Story Camp

Above is the camp director, and below are some friendly staffers!

 

 


Leap: Women’s Weekend at the Beach

What: A weekend retreat – or advance, rather – designed to build a woman’s confidence, authenticity, and audacity in her body, creativity, and writing. Let the ocean refresh you, find that sweet, perfect writing spot, relish a yoga pose, craft a story or reflection or poem. Find connection with an inspiring, intimate tribe of women. Validate that most important creator in your life: you.

Facilitators: Nature and Christi Krug

Where: Nehalem, Oregon North Fork 53.

When: Friday-Sunday, Feb 28 – March 1, 2020

Cost: $425 / or $400 (early bird discount before Feb 16).

Includes lodging at the peaceful, artsy North Fork 53, co-created organic farm breakfasts, and two days of guided activities, individualized creative coaching, yoga sessions, and workshop facilitation.

Register, receive a payment link, or get more info by emailing christi@christikrug.com.

A Sweet Pause in the Gorge: May 17-18, 2019

What: An overnight retreat designed to restore a woman’s creative energy. Be surrounded by the lush, healing power of the Columbia Gorge while taking care of that most important creator in your life: you.

14711954_1799129310328636_1882223534336376832_n

Engage in journaling, story prompts, yoga, and warm connection. Take in some time to work on your own writing project or enjoying soothing solitude. Enjoy a lakeside walk, drink deep of nature’s inspiration, inhabit your body and celebrate what it is to listen to others and to be heard.

Especially for women who are always giving: teachers, healers, moms, coaches, business owners.

Facilitators: Nature and Christi Krug

Where: Washougal, Washington

When: Friday-Saturday, May 17-18, 2019

Cost: $200 / or $175 (early bird discount).

Includes lodging on a scenic hilltop overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, as well as two days of guided activities, individualized creative coaching, and workshop facilitation.*

Discounts:

Register below. Save $25 if you register by May 1; savings drops to $10 if you register by May 10.

Pause in the Gorge Retreat Payment

*Savings will be returned via Paypal within 24 hours of payment.

Wildfire Writing II

Wildfire Writing class is where it all began, 21 years ago, helping writers discover their creative selves and voices. Wildfire II at Clark College focuses especially on fiction for those who have never before seen themselves as strong fiction writers, and those who “can’t think up a story;” and those who have been telling stories in their heads forever, and just need a little help getting them on paper.

Thursdays, 7-9 pm

Clark College, Columbia Tech Center Campus

Register Here

Wildfire Women

As creative nurturers of our families, friends, partners, and work environments, we women need to give ourselves special permission, time, and support for our own unique, vibrant creativity.

This life-changing group uses writing, connection, trust, intuition, empathy, creativity, curiosity, wordplay, and journaling to sustain and delight a group of very special women.

Thursday mornings, May and June in upper downtown Vancouver. Invitation only. This is a private class. Drop me an email if you think you would be a good fit.
Yoga at Clark College 
Approach yoga with a playful, easy, nourishing energy which will foster self-expression and make you a stronger, freer, more authentic human being in all areas of your life.
Tuesday evenings, 7 pm
Clark College, O’Connell Sports Center

Concluded Events

The Element of Surprise! October 27, 2018

What: A workshop designed to access your authentic, spontaneous creative energy. 

Award-winning pastel artist Jane Aukshunas is joining me to co-teach a creative workshop, using the avenues of art as well as writing. You don’t have to be an artist of any stripe, or a writer, for that matter, to benefit from this dynamic day. We’ll be tapping into elements within that you didn’t know were there. The surprise here is absolutely exciting and I can hardly wait to share it with you. Through our writing and art exercises, you will completely take your inner critic by surprise – finding self-expression along with a sense of confidence, joy, and appreciation. At the same time, you’ll be making some beautiful pieces.

Facilitators: Jane Aukshunas and Christi Krug

Where: TaborSpace, 5441 SE Belmont, Portland Oregon 97215

When:  Saturday, October 27, 10 am – 2pm

Cost: $115 – or –  $100 for early registration, by October 15

Register: Use the button below.

Surprise Art & Writing Workshop

Past events:

Free Your Voice Workshop

Have you always loved singing but don’t feel confident about your voice?

Or . . .

Have you always loved to write but find yourself blocked?

I’m excited to be offering “Free Your Voice,” a collaborative, integrative writing and singing workshop with Marie Black. Marie is a vocal teacher, singer, and songwriter, whose brilliant guidance has freed and inspired singers throughout the nation.

What: a lavish, intensive, playful, outrageous, spontaneous process giving you a new sense of freedom in both vocal singing and creative writing.

Who: Christi Krug and Marie Black

Where: Holistic Lab Studio, 4110 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland

When: Sunday, October 30, 4 pm – 7 pm

Fee is $50 through October 25, $60 after October 25

Break free from premature critical thinking in the creative process, so that you can move ahead with writing, singing, and creating. 

Burn Wild Workshop Payment

Poetry and Art at Cellar 55

I’ll be reading poetry with a healing vibe, together with the absorbing poetry and vivacious art of Grace Valentine.
When: Thursday, July 28, 6-8 pm
Where: 1812 Washington Street, Vancouver Washington 98660

Grief Rites

A poignant reading series acknowledging grief and loss, hosted by Melissa Dodson.
When: Monday, August 8, 7 – 9 pm
Where: Post 134, 2104 NE Alberta Street, Portland Oregon 97211

The Front Porch: “Harvest”

Storytelling performance. No script.
When: Thursday, August 18, 7 – 9 pm
Where:  Rusty Grape Winery,  16712 NE 219th Street, Battle Ground, Washington 98604


Burn Wild Workshop

Free your creative voice. Find confidence.

What it is: a lavish, intensive, playful, outrageous, relaxed and focused process which burns down to the ground all the forces which have blocked your writing and creating.

Where: The Touchmark at Fairway Village, 2911 SE Village Loop, Vancouver.

When: Thursday, August 25th, 7 pm – 9:30 pm. Meeting in the Crystal Room.

Fee is $40.

The Burn Wild workshop series teaches you to break free from premature critical thinking in the creative process, so that you can move ahead with writing and creating. 

This is a time for generating writing, reflecting, and processing together with support, a mega-dose of creativity, and encouragement. We will be writing together – so no need to bring writing. This is not a critique group but a generative creative coaching group. That said, if you do bring a short piece to check in with, we love that.

Wildfire Writing Master Class

Wildfire Master Class is a private class with two options: Wednesday evenings and Thursday mornings in Vancouver, Washington. Do get in touch if you think this is right for you and you want to dig deeper into the critique process with a novel, memoir, or series of stories or essays.

Wednesday Evenings Package: 6:30 pm: August 10th & 24th, September 7th & 21st.  Fee – $150
Thursday Mornings Package: 9:30am-noon: every Thursday in August. Fee – $130

Both the Wednesday and Thursday classes will meet at The Touchmark at Fairway Village, 2911 SE Village Loop, Vancouver. In the Crystal Room.

Yoga Class at Clark College

When: Every Tuesday night, September 27- November 15, 6:00pm-7:00pm

Where: Clark College (Vancouver, Washington) Main Campus, O’Connell Sports Center.

Enter into a unique experience which will foster self-expression and make you a stronger, freer, more authentic human being in all areas of your life. I will lead you in simple, basic yoga postures which are a timeless foundation for health.

You will be guided in a practice of listening to your body as well as your inner self. Cultivate mental flexibility while you awaken physical flexibility, breathing into areas that are stiff, blocked, resistant or intimidated, whether in the mind or the physical being. Enter into a unique experience which will foster self-expression and make you a stronger, freer, more authentic human being in all areas of your life. 

Register for the yoga class via Clark College starting August 16th: online over the phone: 360-992-2939 or in person at Clark College.

 

Newsletter:

Check out what’s happening.

Completed Events:

Another Read Through: Poetry

I get the privilege of teaming up with Neil Aitken and Dan Raphael as guest poets for the evening. Join me along with our wonderful host, owner Elisa Saphier, for a rich and wonderful reading.

Thursday, June 30, 7 – 8:00pm

Another Read Through Bookstore, 3932 N Mississippi Avenue, Portland Oregon 97227

Poetry with Local Poets Dan Raphael, Neil Aitken, and Christi Krug

Off the Page: Stories of First Love

I will be one of seven storytellers at this free event.  Come out and hear the weird, touching, meaningful, and goofy secrets of first love.

Friday, May 13, 7 – 8:30 pm

Three Creeks Library, 800 NE Tenney Road, Vancouver Washington 98685

Artists Helping Artists: Presentation at Southwest Washington Watercolor Society

“Entitlement:” How to Win at Titling Your Work and Other Writing Can-Do’s

Saturday, May 14, 1:30-2:15

Cascade Park Community Library: 600 NE 136th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98684

Wildfire Writing at Clark College

Thursday evenings at the Columbia Tech Center Campus in Vancouver, Washington.

April 7, 2016 – May 5, 2016, 6:30-9 pm / Wildfire II: May 12 – June 9, 6:30-9 pm

This class is like a yoga session for the soul. It’s a process you can engage in repeatedly. Many students have taken this course four, five, or six times, and it’s exciting have seasoned as well as beginning writers exploring together. We experiment with fiction, nonfiction, memoir writing, and a smattering of poetry.

For further adventures in fiction and poetry, Wildfire Writing II immerses you in creativity and helps you connect with “the Dream Kid” while offering fresh, new writing exercises and methods you’ve never tried before. We bring new ideas and perspectives to the table every week. Even I don’t know exactly how the stories and collaborations will play out during our time together–and this adds to the adventure and synergy. You can combine I and II for a discount.

Check out the class and watch the video: Wildfire Writing at Clark College.

Spring Story Camp for Kids

Saturday, April 9, 9:30 – 2:30, for ages 8 – 11

This beautiful, playful camp is inspired by my youngest writing clients who delight me with their stories and boundless creativity. I’m inviting like-minded young creators into our circle. Together we will craft plots, characters, and settings. We will explore and develop our stories using theatre tools, art illustration, and finally, writing. Students will make beautiful homes for stories, generating lifelong confidence as storytellers, artists, and authors.

Cost: $75  includes lunch

Early Registration: $10 Discount before April 1

Private Course. For info/registration, email: christi@christikrug.com

2-Story-Camp-flier

National Unpublished Writers Day

Sunday, January 31, 1-5 pm

Vancouver Community Library, Columbia Room, 901 C Street, Vancouver, WA

Are you less of a writer if unpublished? Absolutely not! And yet writers of all publication levels need support and strategy.

National Unpublished Writers Day is a gathering of writers to discuss strategies for getting their work out into the world. The event was founded by Washington State University Professor John F. Barber, and is now organized by the fabulous Christopher Luna, Clark County Poet Laureate.

Four talks will inspire and educate writers, including my 1 pm presentation, “You’re the Authority.” Novelists Mel Sanders and April Bullard, as well as poet Toni Partington, will be presenting talks at 2, 3, and 4 pm.

You don’t want to miss this opportunity for receiving motivation and support and sharing it with other writers.

Fumbling Forward: Personal Stories of Awkward Grace

Saturday, January 23, 5-6 pm

Waterstone Gallery, 124 NW 9th Avenue, Portland 97209

An evening of storytelling with local writers Sage Cohen, Susan Domagalski Fleming, Gypsy Martin, Carisa Miller, and myself, highlighting the fumbling, bumbling, panic-induced sweating, excruciatingly awkward way we trip over ourselves on our way to making sense of life.

Artist, Erin Leichty, has invited us to bring our personal embarrassments and insights to her latest show at Waterstone Gallery, “Confluence: Where Our Stories Run Together.”

Stories in the Body

Sunday, November 15, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Motion Massage Studio, 1829 Ne Alberta Street, Portland 

This is a unique, beautiful integration of writing and creative movement, for every level of writer and every kind of dancer, even those who have only written in private or danced in the closet.

You’ll be astounded by the creativity that emerges from your own physical being in Stories in the Body.

Jenna Abernathy, Journey Dance Leader, establishes a safe and freeing space for you to explore. I love this opportunity to co-teach with Jenna. I focus on nurturing and expanding your writing through deep listening to body and spirit.

Refreshments provided. Bring a notebook and something to write with.

Wildfire Writing Saturday Workshop

Saturday, November 21,  via Clark College.

9 am – 4 pm, Columbia Tech Center Campus.

I’m excited about this one-day studio workshop visiting the 5 stages of the writing process. Come for an intensive blast of  inspiration, support, idea generation, creating, and sharing. It’s a rare chance to get to move through the process together in a single day. Seats are filling fast.

Burnt Tongue Reading

September 5,  I’m honored to be reading a short story at the Burnt Tongue Reading Series along with Tom Spanbauer, Liz Prato, Domi Shoemaker, Steve Tune, Melanie Alldritt, Josh Lubin, Krista Dabakus, Megan Kruse, Sean Davis, Kevin Meyer, and Doug Chase. Crush Bar, 5-8 pm.

Stories in the Body

September 13, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm

Motion Massage Studio, 1829 Ne Alberta Street, Portland 

This is a unique, beautiful integration of writing and creative movement, for every level of writer and every kind of dancer, even those who have only written in private or danced in the closet.

You will be amazed at the creativity that emerges in Stories in the Body.

Jenna Abernathy, Journey Dance Leader, establishes a safe and freeing space for you to explore. I love this opportunity to co-teach with Jenna. I focus on nurturing and expanding your writing through deep listening to body and spirit.

Refreshments provided. Bring a notebook and something to write with.

Wildfire Writing Master Class

Wednesday evenings, 6 pm: September 2, September 23, October 7
Thursday mornings, 9:30 am: Sept 3, 10, 17, and 24 / Oct 1, 8, 15

Wildfire Master Class is a private class with two options: Wednesday evenings and Thursday mornings in Vancouver, Washington. Do get in touch if you think this is right for you and you want to dig deeper into the critique process with a novel, memoir, or series of stories or essays.

Burn Wild

Free your creative voice. Find confidence.

What it is: a lavish, intensive, playful, outrageous, relaxed and focused process which burns down to the ground all the forces which have blocked your writing and creating.

The Burn Wild workshop series teaches you to break free from premature critical thinking in the creative process, so that you can move ahead with writing and creating.

We’ve been laying a foundation for you to know yourself creatively. You’ll overcome those nagging thoughts that have frozen your abilities in the past. You’ll discover tools of language, art, and creative thinking that will unleash your most creative self and your wildest ideas. What you thought impossible for you will become possible.

Burn Wild  Authenticity II

  • Tuesday, September 22
  • Time: 4 – 5:30 p.m.
  • Place: TaborSpace, Library, 5441 SE Belmont St., Portland 97215
  • Cost: $40
Burn Wild Workshop Payment

Wildfire Wednesday Reading Series – free

Wednesday, September 30, 6:30 – 7:50 pm

Theme: “Changing the Subject”

Cascade Park Community Library: 600 NE 136th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98684

Open Mic for writers to share work in a supportive, vibrant community.  Bring refreshments, get ready for a heartwarming, funny, connecting evening. Follow the theme or bring other work to read (up to 4 pages double-spaced.) Join us!

Rouse Portland Group Facilitation

Rouse Portland is a group of soulful, inspirational creatives that I’ve brought together with the goal of supporting our inner artists. Pearl Waldorf is leading our September gathering on Wednesday, Sept 10: “Creative Flow.”

Wildfire Writing at Clark College

Thursday evenings at the Columbia Tech Center Campus in Vancouver, Washington.

September 24 – October 15, 2015

Saturday workshop – November 21

This class is like a yoga session for the soul. It’s a process you can engage in repeatedly. Many students have taken this course four, five, or six times, and it is a delight to have seasoned as well as beginning writers exploring together. We experiment with fiction, nonfiction, memoir writing, and a smattering of poetry.

For further adventures in fiction and poetry, there is Wildfire Writing II. You can combine I and II for a discount. Each class immerses you in creativity and helps you connect with “the Dream Kid” while offering fresh, new writing exercises and methods you’ve never tried before. We bring new ideas and perspectives to the table every week. Even I don’t know exactly how the stories and collaborations will play out during our time together–and this adds to the adventure and synergy. You can check out the class and watch the video. Take a look at Wildfire Writing at Clark College.

Listen to Your Mother

Thursday, May 7
7:30 pm

Alberta Rose Theater

Get tickets here.

IMG_0009

Join me and the rest of the cast of “Listen to Your Mother” for an evening of artful live readings by local writers. Our show validates and celebrates mothering and motherhood, while moving you to laughter and tears. I can’t wait for us to share our carefully crafted stories with you.

Willamette Writers Conference: Slashing Procrastination

Sunday, August 3, 2014, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Free worksheets here. Innovative, inspirational, effective techniques for breaking free from procrastination and becoming proud of your achievements.

Coaching beginning and intermediate writers is what I dedicate myself to doing two to three days a week, via Skype and phone and live meetings. My clients hail from many parts of the world. I offer first-time author support, help overcoming writer’s block, guidance in writing difficult memories, expertise in developing novels, and many other things. I’d love to hear about what you’re working on or hoping to start. My mission is to help you flourish creatively.

What people are saying . . .

  • Christi Krug’s class was one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. She allowed me the freedom to just move my hand across the page and find my voice.

    Cheryl
  • I want to thank for your positiveness each day and for encouraging writers to stick with the task of telling their stories. —Desiree 

    Desiree
  • Your Wildfire Writing class was a wonderful introduction into the world of writing for me. Thank you. Your teaching style and the atmosphere of acceptance free of judgment and condemnation is wonderful. I delighted in arriving each Thursday evening to write and to listen as authors shared their pieces. I miss being in your class and hope to rejoin you in the fall.  Your class is a gift to be shared with all who seek to challenge the author within.

    Val S.
  • I now know that I can write, that I must write. The idea that I have nothing to write about, or that I can’t write, is patently false. What I need to write is my shame, fear, and anger.

    Becky
  • Who knew what lay dormant inside? Thank you for the awakening.

    Robin
  • I am especially touched by your sharing your personal stories which helps all of us to feel more confident about accessing and sharing our own personal remembrances.  It seems authenticity often requires taking that risk–at least for me. I loved hearing your story last night about the little girl who fell in love with the people in her young life who validated her.  It says so much.  Thank you.

    Bonnie H.
  • I will take your class again because of your wonderful talent.  I believe in my own talent now, thanks to you. 

    Jewel
  • Thank you again for your positive and uplifting pushes to engage me with my writing. The last few weeks have been very healing for me. Having the freedom to just write and spill out my heart has been wonderful. I was having a hard time enjoying writing and now, I long for the times I can soak myself in it. I attached a few prompts to share with you. Thank you for reading and for your encouragement!

    Beth
  • This has made me believe in myself. I see the greatness in all of us – risk takers.

    Carlene
  • Christi Krug’s classes changed my life. She helped me return to my creative path, the one that I allowed to be blocked by all the things I was taught I had to do. You know all those grown up and responsible things. She gave me permission to play, experiment, and create.  

    Val W.
  • “Christi Krug’s writing classes changed my life.” There’s no other way to put it than this because it’s true for me as well!

    Edee
  • Christi, I loved your book.  It has had its first read, but now I will start again with a pen.  There are so many good ideas to re-start that fire.  My daughter encourages people to jump start their creative side, so I am going to give her a copy for her office.  I have also had an inquiry from a friend in D.C.  My poet friend loved her copy. I have such respect for people who have talent but even more for those who inspire others to seek their own.  You have given a gift which all of us can re-open whenever we need a fresh spark.

    Arvy
  • You get to dream, be inspired, be young, be old, be wild! You get to remember how to play again! Thank you!

    Rolf
  • September 7, 2013, marked my one-year anniversary for publishing my writing. I think the biggest thing I learned in your classes was that I didn’t have to be profound, or even serious, in my writing—that it could and should be fun. Once you freed me to be silly, I’m afraid there was no stopping me.  The other very important thing was to just do it (where the speed writing came in very handy). I just finished my fifth book in the Imogene Museum cozy mystery series, and for the past six months writing has been supporting me. I was laid off three years ago in October, but now I can say with confidence that I am a writer, and it’s a job I will never want to retire from.  

    Jerusha Jones, author of the Imogene Museum mystery series
  • Thank you Christi for making me (and everyone) always feel welcome. No wonder there was such a crowd! 

    Diane
  • I can’t believe what you have done for me. I’m so excited, at times I feel I’m about to jump out of my skin. 

    Mary
  • Thanks for helping me recognize my critic. The fun is really coming back! 

    Patricia
  • I’m pretty critical of myself. But I’m honoring myself by allowing myself to learn the craft that calls to me. And I get to enjoy the freedom of childhood, the wonder, the joy – all of it, fully and completely.  

    Melody
  • I can’t tell you how much this class has meant to me! I’m getting ideas now, all day long. 

    Val W.
  • You have opened up a whole new world for me.

    Deborah
  • I’ve learned that I have to tell my husband, “This is now my time for writing.” 

    Harriet
  • The class, taught by Wildfire Writing’s founder, Christi Krug, was so much fun that all of the members of our group attended it twice (that’s when the group formed, but we weren’t ChaCheeJam yet,) and a couple of us attended thrice. 

    ChaCheeJam Writing Community (www.readchacheemcham.com)
  • Christi opened me to writing from the first class and I haven’t been able to stop since. Her undying enthusiasm for my message and her week after week encouragement to “unpack” each of my painful stories has kept me going. “Your writing is meant to be shared,” she kept saying. And then she became my editor.

    Mary DeYon, author of What Does Love Have to Do With It?
  • Thanks for helping me recognize that my critic existed and was really holding me back. 

    Patricia
  • To have a voice, to hear my own thoughts, to learn about what makes me happy to build the fire within myself and to be comfortable with who I am and what I feel. 

    Jill
  • You have freed my mind to reach beyond what I thought were my limits. 

    Laurie
  • The exercises are fun-filled adventures and everyone has a story and a gift we can enjoy.  

    Dave
  • Thank you, Christi, for all the feedback. You truly have a gift for encouraging writers. You have helped me be released from the self-restriction of “what-ifs” and “not todays” that have plagued me. 

    Beth
  • Thanks for your kindness the other night . . . great evening you planned for us, full of gifts and encouragements. Love your invitation to write, (create), or in my case re-up. 

    Steve

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Contact Christi