I don’t consider myself a lucky person, but I’ve been fortunate, blessed in so many ways. One way in particular is with the associations I’ve had over the years with women. You hear so much about how “horrible” it is to work for and with women. The cat fighting, the nail scratching – and I’m sure that exists. Just not for me.

Working with women has been some of the most fulfilling times of my life.

For me, working with women has been some of the most fulfilling times of my life, and nowhere has that been truer than with Houston Bay Area RWA®.

What an eclectic mix our group has, and yet we come together month after month, united in our common goal of becoming or staying published. The heartfelt congratulations we give to one another, the commiserations, the sharing of industry news and information, and the level of professionalism with which we have chosen to pursue our goal continues to rise and the results have been phenomenal.

At last year’s National Convention in Reno, I met a woman from a state that had no RWA local chapter. Another woman had only one chapter in her state, miles and miles from where she lived. How fortunate, I thought, that I have HBA, not to mention two other local chapters, where I am treated to a plethora of information and support.

What we have at HBA is an example of the very best that can happen when dedicated and determined women work together. I am fortunate to be a part of such an exciting and dynamic group, and I look forward to a treasure of writing information in the coming year.

At this time, when we all make promises to ourselves, let us add preserving the good will inherent at HBA. And to you guys who come to our meetings, kudos to you for recognizing the value that being in the company of women can offer.

When not serving as PRO Liaison and head cheerleader for HBA, Ann Peake writes gripping fantasy romances and one day hopes to move from PRO to PAN.

Copyright © 2005 Ann Peake. All rights reserved. Used with permission.