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My first TT since 2008! Please excuse the graphic – I haven’t made a new one yet.
- It’s official. I feel like a “real professional” knowing I have a monthly meeting to attend. (Or a recovering addict – I guess that works too.)
- Networking. No where else can you rub shoulders with sucessful career authors like Cherry Adair, Stella Cameron, and Lauren Dane.
- Making friends. People just like me, who have to make an effort to get out of their pajamas on a Saturday to make a meeting, but show up full of energy and passion for writing anyway.
- Workshops. Maybe my chapter is just blessed, but we’ve had some amazing speakers – all FREE.
- Romance Writer’s Report. I love getting this. Not only does it help me expand my TBR list every month, but it includes great articles on craft, inspriation, and the business-side of writing.
- Advice on demand. It amazed me the first time I saw published authors chiming in to answer newbie questions. This is the Holy Grail of the RWA, IMO.
- Rights of passage. Maybe it sounds silly, but when I received my feather boa at ECWC for going PRO, I really felt like I’d accomplished something and I’m looking forward to the day I can snag the brass ring of PAN status.
- Support. When you’re down and out and feel like giving up, there is always someone there to kick you in the butt, or lend a helping hand.
- Insider info. What does all this stuff with Amazon and Macmillan mean – thanks to the authors in my chapter, I think I have a better handle on it.
- Advocacy. The RWA goes to bat for its members. It only took 2 days for Harlequin Enterprises to change their self-publishing approach.
- Accountability, Encouragment, and Celebration. Fellow members are there to help you celebrate your successes and hold you accountable for acheiving your goals. The GSRWA has a “Goal Bowl” lottery that we do every month.
- Contests. You can enter these without membership, but the contest loop keeps you up to date on opportunities, and you usually get a discount for being a member. Contests are a great way to get exposure and valuable feedback.
- Conferences. Meet and pitch to editors and agents, hear inspiring speeches from best-selling authors, attend workshops, and HAVE FUN!
Speaking of conferences, if you’re in the NW, consider attending the Emerald City Writers’ Conference – it’s going to ROCK, and the best part …
You will already know someone there! 
Writers, if you’re not a member of the RWA, I strongly suggest you consider it. And if you don’t write romance, find a similar organization in your genre and join – they are worth every penny of the annual dues. You will not be sorry.
The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others’ comments. It’s easy, and fun!
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