After a few weeks, I was hooked. I loved the cooperative atmosphere, the community, but mostly the freedom it offered. I didn’t have to support a whole story on my own if I didn’t want to. I didn’t have to worry about that, & could allow my re-reemerging writer to wriggle out and grow.

It’s hard to believe, but I would consider myself rather shy amongst others (crazy, right?). I gained more confidence as I entered high school, but it wasn’t the rough-and-tumble of the “Big Time” that made me more confident. There’s just something about the arts that sharpens a person; maybe it’s the constant exposure to criticism, the need to be able to put yourself out there for others’ judgement. I don’t know.

Anyway, I had a constant outlet, always availible for feedback. That feedback made me think about my work, and it changed as I did. I grew roots; I fell right in place with the people. Oh, the people! I can’t believe the talent, and the folks behind it! I was, and still am, blown away.