Facts and Fantasies

Signs of Domestic Violence

Each year, two million women in the United States suffer from domestic violence. The women of the Outreach Committee created their own method of erasing spousal abuse. One that would not work in the real world. They all agree that recognizing the signs of abusive behavior from the beginning -- and avoiding the person displaying them -- is a woman’s best defense. Some early signs of abuse to look for in a budding relationship:
• Jealousy when you speak to others
• Isolating you from your family and friends
• Making you responsible for his feelings
• Blaming others for his problems or mistakes
• Unrealistic expectations for you or your relationship.
• He’s easily insulted

Woodhams Words of Wisdom for Writers

Writers work alone; theirs is a solitary existence. We may be our own best critics, but our work shines with the knowledgeable input of others. Was the voice you chose for a character the right one? Would that character act in the manner you’ve devised? Is the plot believable? Are your sentences too long – or too short? Grammar correct? A writer looking for like minded groups will find several categories of organizations:
• A critique group whose members regularly meet for the express purpose of reading and critiquing each others‘ work and developing the craft of writing; Example: The North County Writers Bloc.
• A group featuring inspiring speakers who are successful writers. Example: LA’s Southwest Manuscripters; NAWLA (Los Angeles); Sisters In Crime.
• Groups who educate us on the business of writing and publishing. Example: Writers and Publishers of San Diego; Read Local San Diego.
• On line writers’ blogs which discuss all aspects of writing.
• Don’t forget writers conferences which give the writers opportunities to promote their work to agents and publishers.