What I did in November

I know its December but since I was so busy with the NaNoWriMo or National Novel Writers Month last month and completing my over 50,000 word count manuscript in November I thought I would update you on a few things that happened during that month.   

I belong to The Greater Cleveland Writers Group.   The meeting was on November 2^nd.  It’s on a boat on the edge of the water right in Downtown Cleveland.  Most of the summer we were on the outside deck, with the seagulls and swirling breezes, but it was nice.  When it became too dark to read our work, the meeting adjourned and we all mulled around networking and talking. 

This last meeting we were once again indoor because of weather.  A long table was set up and most of the chairs were taken except one on the far end.  As I walked up to sit down I noted the person I would be sitting next too.  He is a very prominent editor and writer, having several books out and is one of the leading experts in the group.   Over the last year I have noted him sitting on the other side of the room and during his helpful answer question periods.  He is extremely knowledgeable.  I was a bit nervous sitting next to him.  He was talking to a few people sitting around us so I listened in. 

I was very surprised at how approachable he was, his knowledge made the advice he gave very sound.   He really does know what he’s talking about.  I spent most of the night standing near him listening and getting so much in return.  He poured out the advice and encouragement to anyone that asked.  Before the night was over he gave me his card. 

I heard the term before.  Never judge a book by its cover.  When I first saw him during the critiquing part of the group, he was very close mouthed, he closed his eyes and listened, he wrote a few things down.  Then when he talked he was very to the point.  There was no padding, or frilly stuff, just pure advice good or bad.   I heard some of the things the people who got the advice from him said later.  They had various opinions on his advice.  Some think his good some think he’s crazy. 

My feeling is if someone is in the business and is published and selling books they might know more about it than me, but then again each person that has been published has a different story.  One never knows whether the information could be handy or not. 

One thing that is always stated at the meetings from the experts is, this is a business.  The writers love the creativity of writing, but when the writing is done the business part of it is next.  That is where the group can be the most effective. 

Another meeting is coming up next week.  I can hardly wait to see everyone and tell them about my success with NaNoWriMo.  But also to hear what they have been up too.

The value of a good writing group is priceless.  If you have a hobby of any kind, get into a group for support, the rewards far outweigh the cost both in time and money.   Until next time.