My writing group is amazing. Just ask us.
Ten years ago, I carefully selected a small cluster of friends, and we formed a writing group. Later, we decided we needed a name. Since then, The Inklings have grown as writers and in number. One of my favorite traditions is going to the
Oklahoma Writer's Federation, Inc. each year.
My mother and I went first--way back in 2003.
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| Martha and Brandi after OWFI in 2003 |
She'd attended previously and thought I'd enjoy it as a birthday gift. We had such a good time that we decided to bring our pals and enter the contest the following year.
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| The Inklings at our first OWFI banquet. (Photo taken by William Bernardt!) |
The first time The Inklings attended OWFI, a member said, "What group are you?"
"We're the Inklings."
"Never heard of you."
We smiled. "You will."
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| Kelly and Brandi with certificates and checks from our first OWFI contest. |
So true.
We make new friends each year. That's part of who we are. Gabbing with others who are passionate about writing is a favorite past time.
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| Inklings and friends at our 2011 banquet table |
In 2005,
Lisa introduced the "hallelujah basket."
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| Hallelujah basket 2006 |
She's stowed various items of celebration in it over the years, but there's always,
always a tiara and jingle bells. During the banquet in which contest winners are announced, we shake the basket to get those bells jingling as we applaud. When the winner returns with her prize, she is crowned with a tiara--until the next winner claims it. It's. So. Much. Fun.
I love seeing my friends crowned.
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| Dee Dee Chumley |
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| Kelly Bristow |
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| Sonia Gensler |
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| Karuna Clark |
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| Shel Harrington |
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| Martha Bryant |
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| Lisa Marotta |
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| Karen Coody-Cooper |
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| Don't get me wrong. I like a tiara, too! |
This year, the announcer even joined in our fun as she announced. "Well, get out the tiara."
Next Writer's Wednesday: How to start your own critique group.
