I’m feeling a great deal of gratitude this morning. First, I chatted with my critique group last night (or at least the person most keen on keeping the rules) and I understand his point of view and the reason for the rules much better now. We figured out a way to work allowing me to keep my writing method and at the same time make the process enjoyable for the group.

I’ll finish the novel, make the first chapter as strong as I can and then submit it to the group. When they critique it, I’ll make the changes to the first chapter and carry their recommendations through to the next chapter and wherever else things need to change in the novel. Rinse. Repeat.

This works for them because it ensures that they do not see the same mistakes over and over. It works for me because it’s basically an extension of my normal method of iterative writing.

Second reason for gratitude: Supportive offers from a friend who saw my blog entry yesterday and said she is willing to alpha/beta read.

Third reason for gratitude: Today I get to read “Hot Turtle Sex” on Zoom at 2pm Central today. I’m looking forward to it. Again, let me know if you want the secret Zoom information.

Fourth reason for gratitude: I finally feel somewhat rested, though I’m not sure why.

Fifth reason for gratitude: My inner writer told me today that we are not writing a cozy for my last story of the Great Challenge. Instead, I am writing a story set in Argosy several years prior to the disappearance of Chloris’ parents, but with a new character, Dido. This has a lovely resonance for me. My first Argosy story, “Emissaries of Artemis,” was the fifth story I wrote in the Great Challenge and also my first Honorable Mention from Writers of the Future.

Sixth reason for gratitude: After a great deal of angst, I have taken up the challenge offered by my critique group, which is to begin a story with the following line: “She felt more than heard something snap deep within [Name of Foe].” I haven’t been able to make it work for weeks and I’d just about given up. But this morning Dido came into my consciousness and said, “No, this is how it’s done. This is my story. Move aside. Let me tell you how it is.” And just like that a new character, a new story, and a use for the difficult line.

I hope you also have many reasons for gratitude in your own lives. Be well, friends! And stay well.