Last Sunday afternoon, I met with my online critique group in a brick and mortar restaurant/bar for some face-to face-fun and support. Given the day of the week and the 2 p.m. time, we expected to find a quiet corner to discuss writing, but the placed was packed with dartboard enthusiasts engaging in playoffs for an upcoming tournament. After some discussion, we decided to stay for food and drinks and the first half of our intended program: 2008 accomplishments and 2009 resolutions. Later, we would adjourn to a library to discuss our works in progress and techniques to improve our writing.

The five of us began with food, drinks, and a recounting by each person of her 2008 accomplishments, which included writing for a set amount of time every day, winning contests, publishing books, presenting writing workshops, creating web sites and blogs,  and other activities. By the time we had completed the bragfest, we were feeling great about ourselves and were ready to move on to 2009 resolutions.  Our pledges included  time commitments, novels to finish, and marketing strategies to utilize. By the time we were ready to move to the library for a discussion of our current works in progress and techniques for improving them, an enthusiasm for our work in the coming year was building.

After forming a caravan to the library, we settled in a vacant study room just the right size for our group and got down to a general discussion of our work. With previously critiqued chapter in front of us, we each talked about our characters, their overall story goals and the obstacles in their paths. I brought some information on the order information is given in scenes and sequels (as gleaned from Jack Bickham's Scene & Structure), and we looked at ways we might re-order and expand on certain scenes and chapters.

The problem with libraries is that they close early on Sunday. At about a quarter to five, we got our first time warning. During a quick wrap up, Arlene presented us each with pocket diaries perfect for jotting down ideas while on the go. Bonnie gave each of us a packet filled with writing charts, including forms to keep track of writing time (a great thing to do if you are presenting your expenses to the IRS on a Schedule C). There were also worksheets on marketing and character and plot development. Armed with these gifts and high spirits, we were shooed out of the room and were off to an exciting and productive new year.