How the Matchmaker Got Engaged

As a new membership year rolls around, I think of how I got involved with the CWC.

As writers, we spend considerable time in our heads, so finding a writing community became important when I put on my writing shoes. I happily stumbled upon the SF-Peninsula Branch and into the Sequoia Yacht Club.

I recall Margaret Nalbach and Tim Flood as the first friendly faces I encountered.  Later, Alisha Willis chatted with me, asked me what I wrote and shared what she did.  In a subsequent meeting, Lisa Meltzer Penn and I were partnered up for a game where we sprang at each other, roared like lions, and made faces — what fun! 

A few months later, there was a new member meeting organized graciously by Carole Bumpus, at her house. An afternoon of writerly camaraderie with other new members (hello Vibha!) made me wish for an encore the next year — alas one can be new but once.

These events are from five-ish years ago, so I don’t expect that any of these wonderful people will remember what they so kindly did!  To a new member, however, this goes a long way towards making them feel welcome.

All the courting led to my engagement with the Board when Geri Spieler and Tim Flood asked me to step into the role of Matchmaker for critique groups. I truly believe our Branch is special in that we have this kind of outreach for new members — the welcoming e-mails, the one-to-one chat and the shout-out with their names in the Newsblast…

Getting involved was a great way to meet more people and forge relationships. Not only have I had wonderful chats with members, but I also found support for my slooow-brewing book — shout-out to Audrey Kalman and Eva Barrows!

I have gained more than I can ever give. So, it was really a no-brainer when it came to renewing my vows, er, membership for another year.

P.S.: Social media is a good way to connect with writers and cheer them on. Got Insta? Find me @sepiaquill and I’ll find you back.