Lately I've been having writer's withdrawal. Because of family events and other commitments, I haven't been able to attend my Tuesday morning writing group, Coffee and Critique, for three weeks.After so many weeks of being critique-free, I was looking forward to getting back in the swing of things, so much so that last night I attended a Saturday Writers open mic event. With more than 20 writers in attendance, last night's event was a big hit.
This morning I received a call from my best writing buddy, Lou Turner. Lou told me she had talked to Nick Nixon yesterday, and Nick was going to visit our critique group today.
Nick has been fighting cancer lately, and we've missed his presence greatly, but we always have kept a chair at the table for him. Nick is an amazing writer, songwriter, singer, entertainer, and all-around good guy.
So, this morning, Nick, his wife Kim and daughter Autumn Rose, as well as Nick's good friend Nick Berry from Ohio, dropped in our group for a visit.
Nick read one of his wonderful essays, and stayed a bit to give critique on a few others that were read.
I managed to snap a few shots of Nick and his family and one of him with Nick Berry. Kim also took a few photos of those C&C members there today, including the one above.
If you pop on over to the Coffee and Critique blog later today you will find more shots from this morning, but I wanted to post one here of Nick with some of our group so my visitors will know what's been going on with our dear writing friend, Nick Nixon.
You have such an active and interesting group. Love to read about your doin's. Yes, life-both good and bad-often interferes with a writing life.
ReplyDeleteHi Claudia,
ReplyDeleteIf you're ever in St. Charles County on a Tuesday morning you will have to pop in for a visit!
Donna
Donna--How wonderful that Nick felt up to coming. I am sure it was a great critique session.
ReplyDeleteHi Sioux,
DeleteIt was great. Nick read one of his essays about the early Country years. Great writing and lots of touches of humor--vintage Nick!
Donna
I really wish I could have been there this morning. C&C is always a fun time and great group of critiquers. Hey, Nick, sorry I missed getting one of your critiques on my writing--it's great to see you out and about!
ReplyDeleteClaudia Shelton
What a wonderful surprise! Nick is a vital member of C&C and his unique voice has been missed. You know, sometimes it is a chore dragging myself out on C&C mornings, and lately I've written nothing to read, but being involved with this critique group is so valuable and worth the effort. You just never know what you may hear, and how a critique may help and inspire your own work. Thx for pulling us all together, Donna, and thx Nick for proving how important a good, honest, caring critique is. Friendships are made of these things.
ReplyDeleteThat looks like a congenial group. When I read the word critique, I picture scowling critics. But I don't suppose anybody wants to name their group Coffee and Story-Polishers.
ReplyDeleteNick's writing has inspired me for years. He's a master storyteller. I just told Donna this "Nick Nixon" story. Last year when he was driving to OCW, we kept in touch by phone all the way down. He had bought a book on tape for the trip. About halfway to Eureka Springs he called and told me the book he was listening to was boring and wondered if it was going to get better. I asked what it was and in that great "Nick" voice he said..."Great Expectations." I told him no. Nick Nixon can outwrite Dickens all to heck.
ReplyDeleteHi Claudia,
ReplyDeleteIt was a lovely visit. I know Nick would've loved to see you, but it's understandable with your book promotion.
Hi Marcia,
How true. I'm inspired every week by the remarkable talent in our group, and all the special friendships are icing on the cake.
Hi Val,
Very true. I believe the critiques are what makes our works and words stronger.
Hi Lou,
As we would say in the group, "Ditto!"
You can tell by the smiles on the faces in the photo that it was a joyful occasion for us all.
I am so sorry I missed this wonderful surprise!
ReplyDeleteIt was truly a wonderful surprise, Becky!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad that Nick was able to visit C & C. I miss seeing him!
ReplyDeletePat
Critter Alley
Hi Pat,
ReplyDeleteMaybe you can join us some time soon.
Donna