WorD

Have I mentioned WorD here on the blog?

My dearest writing friends whom I've never actually met in person.

We met in an online creative writing class through UCLA Extension.

Novel 2, with teacher, Chris Terry.

In Novel 1, we wrote a first chapter.

In Novel 2, we added 50 more pages. 

Each week for 12 weeks we submitted scenes for workshopping.

Giving and receiving constructive critique and feedback from both classmates and our teacher.

One of our "assignments" was to find a writing group.

So, I reached out to three ladies who gave helpful feedback and had compelling stories 

and asked if they'd like to be in a writing group together.

For the next few years we met twice a month via Zoom.

We alternated two of us submitting work at the first of the week and met to discuss,

then later sent written notes.

They have known my story back when it had a verrrrry messy beginning, too many opening characters,

repetitive scenes, flat character arcs and excessively wordy.

But, they also fell in love with the characters, connected with scenes, 

defended the emotion and saw the potential.

Ahhhh it's the best to find friends who support and encourage you 

who are also writing friends who get it.

Last week we met to discuss MY BOOK! 

I think it's just as surreal for them as it is for me.

Surreal but magical.

I was teary after we said goodbye. 

Because without them, I wouldn't have a book.