At the end of July, our little ‘Inklings’ writing team came down to my house for two days, and it was seriously magical. Amazing, even. I have never been able to sit there and talk writing for two days with anyone ever before. Most people look at me when I start to talk about it like I’m nuts. And let’s face it. I am. I’m the first person to admit that I am a nutty creative. 

But these wonderful women, who I consider some of my closest friends – they are also nutty creatives. 

Until those few days were over, I never realised just how valuable having writers get together actually is. Mel, Tee, and Cassie are all incredibly different women, but they also have a bunch of things in common with myself other than writing – and that’s a pretty big one. But their knowledge of everything is so different, and the fact that it’s complimentary is really awesome.

So we spent two days bouncing ideas, the whole publishing and editing process, cover art and design, talking about books we love and the ones we don’t like (- and breaking down the reasons why), authors we admire, and our own hopes and dreams.  It was amazing, and exhausting at the same time. 

It’s now a month later, and we are back to being in constant contact with each as we always have been through email and chat, but I miss their presence. There is nothing quite as valuable as being able to turn around and start blurting out all things writing, and having the recipient know exactly what you are talking about. I know that my husband has no idea what I’m talking about, and neither does he care. (Much like how I don’t care about sport, and the like.)

We have all got huge amounts of work on, and we are all extremely focused women with families to look after and kids to raise. But you know what the nicest thing is? We all took that time out to dedicate and spend with each other, and talk ‘shop’ so to speak. It’s just so important having people around you who you can trust, especially in matters of creativity. We can give oodles and oodles of feedback to each other without taking offence, and know that it’s for the betterment of our writing and developing our skills. That is invaluable, and I am so pleased I have such an amazing crew around me.

Some days are just special – here is one of my most favourite photos of Abby, of her running on the beach when our little Inklings group decided to take her for a walk. Our 1st Inklings Retreat was a smashing success – and a time that will stay in my heart forever. I can’t wait for our 2nd Inklings Retreat next year, and to analyse at how far we have come from a month ago.