Tacoma Writing Group Update

Hello Sockmonkeys!

After the comments left on the last blog post showed that some writers had attempted to attend the write in on January 11th, but couldn't find the host, I contacted them and thought I would come post a brief update, especially if those who tried to attend didn't see the comments in the previous post.

First of all, I'm very sorry some of you tried to attend but were not able to connect with the other writers who were there.  I think it's great that you made the effort!  This is a learning experience for everyone, I think, but I'm sure we can iron out the proverbial kinks and get some folks connected in the future.

I won't type it all out, but above is the comments section on the original post.  I took a screenshot of it so I could post it in a few places I knew the host would be able to see it so they would know there had been interest.  I also replied and let them know that I'd be willing to help facilitate being found in the future with tips from NaNo or a table tent or things like that.  I'm glad that this meetup was close enough to some of you that you were willing to attend and I hope you don't let this little hiccup stop you in the future.  It's always great when writers get connected during NaNoWriMo - but it's even better when you can meet writers during the rest of the year for encouragement and dedicated writing time.

To make this easier to read (especially if someone is using a screen reader) I will type these two comments out:

"LS Schulz: Oh, wow, great to see there was some interest!  Sorry you weren't able to connect with the group that was there.  I'm in contact with the host and will work out a way in the future for them to let people know who they are/where they're sitting so they'll be easier to find at future meetings.  (I've also asked that they keep an eye on the blog posts in the future so they can post identifying info as well as reply to any comments or questions like these in the future.)"

"John Newsom: Hi, all. Sorry I didn't check the blog!  Also bummer that I didn't do a better job of identifying myself.  I only told Josiah.  I'll post on the blog next time!  Glad to see there was interest.  I'll be traveling most of February, but will plan another in March. And I'll post on the blog first!  And get some kind of table ornament.  I'm not sure Bluebeard is the best place - it was very crowded.  I'm certainly open to other suggestions.  There's Anthem in Old Town, and Anthem and Jewel Box at Point Ruston.  I'm sure some of you in Tacoma have favorites."

Thank you for popping into the comments here on the blog, John and updating us.  It's nice to know there will be a bit of a break but that you'll be planning another in March.  Also good to know about the lack of space.  You've put some potential suggestions in your comment, so I'll add them to this post.

Those of you who tried to attend, or who might like to attend a future Tacoma area write in, do you know any good coffee shops that might work as a place for a small group to meet?  Do you have a preference between Anthem in Old Town, Anthem at Point Ruston or Jewel Box at Point Ruston?  Do you have another favorite?  Please, leave your preferences and suggestions here in the comments to help with the planning for the March meetup.

Whether you are planning to attend this group or not, I hope the New Year finds you making progress with your writing.

Stay tuned, more changes and announcements will be coming in the near future that I hope will help knit our spread out group of writers together, including some posts asking for feedback and ideas that I hope more Sockmonkeys will weigh in on.