Writers oftentimes work alone. So it’s a wonderful thing when a fellow writer comes along with whom you can brainstorm and encourage.
I met Gail Helgeson at a writer’s retreat in May 2015. We immediately hit it off with our love of England, faith, and writing.
This month marks our one-year friendship. And truly, Gail is Heaven-sent. We’ve tried, and somewhat accomplished, meeting regularly. This is not always easy. One of us lives in Wisconsin, the other in Minnesota. And one of us works fulltime outside the home. But every six weeks or so, we meet in a room reserved for a “writers’ meeting” at the Oakdale Library in a western suburb of Saint Paul.
Monday, May 16th, was no exception. On the dock were some pressing questions Gail needed to work out answers to about her characters: What were their greatest fears? What are the lies her characters believe? What would her characters NEVER do? What are the characters good at?
I came with no characters to our meeting. I needed a bit of cheerleading as well as a swift kick to get blogging again. And I received both. My mind and fingers feel uncoiled and loosened after having been with my honest, trustworthy, and creative friend.
As always, our time together zips by. Oh, we’ll connect via email until I see her in June, but there is nothing as wonderful as being around a fellow writer with whom to share this crazy world of story-building that we writers do.
As ever, I am so grateful that you make time for me, Gail.
How about you, dear reader? Is there someone who refreshes you and whom you love to be around? Has it been awhile since you have connected? Give yourself a gift and reconnect!
About Julie Saffrin
Julie Saffrin is the author of numerous published articles and essays. Her latest book, BlessBack: Thank Those Who Shaped Your Life, explores the power of gratitude and offers 120 creative ways to journey toward positive, lasting change.
I checked your site and didn’t expect to see us! You are so sweet! It is not often I give someone a “swift kick” and the exact same day, rewards commence. (You know what I am talking about! wink wink) I am still marveling! Marvel yes, surprised…nope. You are a gifted writer. Imagine the possibilities. “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine….” Eph. 3:20. What a ride! Now, get back to work and write!
You two in the same room!? What a great duo! Sounds like a joyful, fun, and meaningful time for sure.
Yup. double trouble 🙂 You know, we could make it the Three Musketeers next time, though.
Very cool! Can’t wait to read what you came up with!