I’ve spent a lot of time on Zoom and other virtual platforms over the past year. Although I get tired of looking at screens, I must admit that online writing events have been a blessing.
For the most obvious example, I’m in a romance writing critique group that has met almost every Tuesday night for the last couple years. We were able to shift to a virtual group fairly easily, and talking about writing (and life) with friends once a week has helped my writing and my mental health immensely. I literally wouldn’t be where I am now without them. The group members have changed over time, so I’m leaving people out, but to name the current members: thanks and kudos to Christa, Deb, Gwen, and Lois for all your support!
Our local chapter of the Romance Writers of America (https://www.rwa.org), AKRWA (https://akrwa.com), has been able to have our monthly business meetings online, too. It’s been a great way to catch up with each other and continue our programs about the craft and business of writing. I’ve learned a lot from my fellow writers there.
Kudos also to my SCBWI-AK (https://alaska.scbwi.org) group, our local chapter of the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Some of us are in a group that does online critiques through email, and SCBWI-AK also holds some virtual meetings. It’s kept me in touch with my YA/kidlit friends, as well.
And since the internet gives me access to people outside the state of Alaska, I’ve attended conferences and webinars hosted from many different places around the world. I recently watched a queries and first pages panel hosted by the Manuscript Academy (https://manuscriptacademy.com). I’m currently taking an online class sponsored by the RWA’s Kiss of Death (https://www.rwakissofdeath.org) chapter. Next weekend, I will attend the Pikes Peak Writers Conference (https://pikespeakwritersconference.com). The sky’s the limit, as long as I have broadband!
There are so many great virtual writing events out there. I encourage you to look around and find something you’re interested in. Let’s use the power of the internet!
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