I went to my first retreat some years ago and it was very dry, low humor. No one talked to each other much and it was like everyone was in their own sewing private space. I wanted to see what everyone was sewing and ask questions but I got the impression no one wanted to be bothered. It took a long time before going to another one but what a difference. The ladies and a couple of men were were there and we had a blast. People were laughing and talking. We could roam around the room and see all the projects and no one gave me the don't bother me look. Now that is the type of retreat worth going to.