July 12, 2010–I finally typed "The End" at the bottom of the last page of Chapter 32 of my 60,000-word Memoir, Iron Grip.  That is what has been keeping me occupied daily, all day, for the past month.  The manuscript will be professionally edited before I turn it over to an agent–if I can find one willing to accept the story.One of the reasons I'm having my book looked over by a professional is this:  A writing associate in my area has self published a book and is out promoting and selling it. It is a mystery complete with a murder in an exotic setting that this author has thoroughly researched.  HOWEVER, the text is loaded with grammar and syntax errors.  She must not have had anyone with a grammar background read her text.  It is sad.  She is a very intelligent and accomplished woman–except in this area.My next workshop meets tomorrow morning; another on Wednesday afternoon.  I print copies of markets that come to me from various writer associates, and give them out to the workshop members.  I charge $2 per meeting for these handouts –just needing to cover my paper and ink expenses.  No one objects.  In fact some bring me reams of paper–that I can surely use.Until next blog, Willma Gore