Green is for greenhorn.
Last night I finally got to editing the personal essay that I brought to the writing group. They are a great bunch of people. All were helpful. All were kind. One, I thought was harsh, but in the light of day, he is direct and particular. I valued all of it. I felt that my opinion was welcomed and useful. They let me in, full ride, so say what I thought. I wasn't as nervous as I would have been earlier in the season. For some reason, my mind clicked and I looked to these groups as a learning experience rather than a networking/connection. That would have been disastrous, I think.
The consequence of it is work to be done before I can consider sending anything out. I deliberately brought something that I didn't edit. I didn't want to think that I had done a good job just to be pulled apart at the seams. Different people looked for different things. Some were just along for the ride. Everyone said what they liked and didn't like. After a week, I can see the work still ahead. My problem is that I can take things out easily, but now I feel like it is a little bland. Time to work on vocabulary, particularly those dynamic verbs.
The next meeting is next Thursday. I hope to have this one done before then. I have the choice about what to bring. This group doesn't have harsh limits. Some bring parts of novels, others bring poetry. Some has been brought before and other work is new. I like that. It makes me, and I suspect all of us, pay more attention and doesn't allow for ruts. And a bonus is that this is an established group, five years or so. Some are regulars and some pop in when they need opinion. I plan on being a regular through the school year. Summers won't be possible as I work when the meetings are. But we'll see how far we get by then.
In other news, if anyone sees the money fairy pass by, send her off my way. I can use some positive thoughts about our finances right now. We're not bad, but we are trying (desperately!) to get a trip to Mexico to work out. I think it's possible with care and planning. Decisions have to be made soon. But I'll take whatever karma/prayers/charms will work. Can't hurt!
Comments (4)
You might have more success looking for Luck, though I've heard she's no lady, refuses to keep the party polite, and has an annoying habit of blowing on other guys' dice (but you didn't hear it from me).
x.g.
Wishing you luck and inspiration . . .