First "reading" of a chapter to a book club....

A friend was kind enough to invite me to read a chapter of my book to her book club. I was a nervous wreck going there. But I kept reminding myself this was my year for taking chances, going beyond my comfort zone, breaking new ground. I imagined as I drove along that if I just kept walking in the direction I wanted to go, under the fog of insecurity and worry and fear, a walkway or road would rise up to meet me. - This thinking in terms of metaphors is a by-product of too much time in my head;-).

I read my chapter and it felt a bit like bearing my soul to strangers (other than my friend). There were things they liked and didn't like. I came home rather exhausted, though I appreciated their feedback. Going to bed, I turned to page 51 in writer's book, "Most Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them" and had to smile when I read tip number 24 -"Don't listen to opinion and criticism from spouses, friends, and people on the street. If it's good, an editor will recognize that and it will be published." I book marked the page and may take that advice going forward;-).

I realize how much I need to work on my writing and have been thinking of taking writing classes. But the book I'm reading said beyond maybe one good class or a few how-to books on dialogue or character development, the time is better spent just doing the writing. I think that's true. I spend so much time reading about writing or researching the history - those are much easier than actually sitting at the computer and making the story appear.

Signing off for tonight. Good wishes to all. Eileen