I get by with a little help from my friends.
My apologies to the Beatles for borrowing their song. I’ve just had those particular lyrics stuck in my head since this weekend when I attended the INRWA annual retreat. Fifteen romance writers. An abundance of wine. A large group critique. I laughed so hard, my face hurt. 
The reason the Beatles were playing in a continual loop in my thoughts was because I realized how much I need these women, how much I depend on my chapter sisters. I was awaiting the overdue results from one of my contest finals, and they were so great at keeping me occupied and helping me realize wherever I placed really didn’t matter in the long run. They were so inspiring, I clipped off three new chapters for my current WIP and wrote a prologue and part of a chapter for the second book in the paranormal series.
My placing in the contest was lower than I had hoped — fifth out of five — and I was so disappointed. 
The email didn’t arrive until I was home Sunday afternoon. I posted something on our chapter loop thanking everyone for the great weekend and telling them my placement and that I was feeling down. Within a few hours, I had notes on the loop and emails in my inbox that were all supportive and encouraging. They have been flooding in today too. I have no idea what I’ve done to deserve such friendship and support, but I cherish it. They give me the courage to keep entering contests, and they give me the inspiration to keep writing.
Gonna try with a little help from my friends.
Sandy, darlin’ you do know why we all support you! You are a great lady and a talented writer.
Hmm. Enough said. The champagne is chillin’
Emma/Katherine
www.emmawildes.com
www.katherinesmith.net
Thanks, Katherine!! I admire your work so much!! Hopefully we can pop that cork soon and have a nice long sip of bubbly!!