Writing is a solitary act. But being a writer doesn’t have to be. I am solucky to be surrounded by such an awesome writing community. Here are just someof the groups that made my year:

The Fictioneers

This is my critique group. Susan, Dani, Carolyn, Meg, and Rae. Without thesewomen, my work would be a shadow of what it is now. They always tell me thetruth but with kindness and support. It’s hard to make adult friends, let alonefriends as kick-ass as these guys. When I feel lost, when I feel like animposter, when I’m unsure where to go in my writing, these are the first peopleI approach, and they’re there for me. Love these women!

OCWW

Off-Campus Writers’ Workshop. Almost every Thursday from September to May,there is a speaker. Some are “famous” like Stuart Dybek and RebeccaMakkai. Some aren’t as well known. Regardless, I learn something every week! It’sa pain in the ass to get up to Winnetka by 9:30 a.m., but I don’t regret thehassle. I’ve gotten great inspiration and notes that I can look back on laterand hone my writing craft. And I’m finally at a point where I know quite a fewpeople, and it’s more like family than indifferent colleagues. Large groups arehard for me, but I know enough people now that I’m comfortable. It’s been agreat source of socialization and learning. 

Just Write Chicago

Almost every Friday since October of 2013 I’ve met writers at New Wave Cafefor a few hours of independent writing and an hour of discussion. I took abouta four month hiatus when my son was little, but other than that, I’ve been aconsistent attendant. I’ve been running the Friday meeting for a while now, andI’ve loved the flux and flow of people. My favorite thing is when people becomeregulars. We’ve got quite a few, and it’s inspiring to see people progress intheir projects. It’s been a wonderful support system and a great way to giveback and help other writers. I’m often amazed at all the insight members havefor one another. No matter how much I struggle alone for the rest of the week,it’s a comfort to have this group every Friday to keep me connected to thecommunity. 

Sisters In Crime

I recently re-joined this group this year. What a great organization! They have so many free events, free classes, and an excellent support system. The Chicagoland chapter is awesome. Their Annual Writers’ Workshop was so informative and fun and free.

Brainstorming/Accountability Group

Susan, Tracy, Lyssa, and Sheri. It was an honor to help weed through the problems and choices in all our stories. And the food was excellent. 

Family

No gratitude post would be complete without my biggest supporter ever, my husband, Randy. I’m beyond lucky to have him in my life, my alpha reader and biggest cheerleader (except for maybe Susan). And my son, Quinlan, who though he is not yet six has informed me that I’m a great writer. Also, a big shout out to our parents and siblings who’ve stepped in on numerous occasions to watch Quinlan so I could do writerly things. My family rocks.

I hope all the other writers out there have found their writing community–even if it’s only via the internet. Writers, in my experience, are very gracious and supportive of one another. Support others and let them support you. Find your tribe!