This weekend I attended our monthly GRW meeting. Being a member of Georgia Romance Writers has given me a tremendous circle of friends and an invaluable source of information. Since I joined in 1991 I've learned more about writing and the publishing than imagined there was to learn. I loved writing but had no idea about guidelines and the complicated maze of romance publishers, imprints and specific lines. When my writing isn't going well, I can call on my writing friends and get TLC and a kick in my backside.

A few years ago I took on the responsibility of providing goodies for our literacy raffle. Creating baskets or bags of books and interesting small items gives me something to contribute to GRW and literacy. Of course there's usually chocolate in each of my baskets. At each meeting I sell tickets and manage to speak with almost everyone at the meeting. I enjoy the whole process and love it when other members provide items for me to add and even some baskets or bags, too. Participating lets me feel more like a part of the group. I highly recommend volunteering in any organization you join.

Many of us are gearing up for the Maggie contest. Entry information is available at Georgia Romance Writers.org

In July I'll attend the big yearly event for romance writers. The RWA conference will be held in Atlanta this year. How cool is that? There will be a gathering of approximately 2,000 women and men who love books and writing. I love the fact that I won't need to fly this year. You'll hear more about this conference and Romance Writers of America as the time draws nearer.