Susan, Thank you very much for taking the time to write a review for my story. You have a very good suggestion with moving those lines to the beginning. and yes, Kathy’s position is in decline. I do need to remind myself to add details and show not tell to make it more clear but yes she is changing. hah yes, the title was definitely ironic. thank you!

Kate, I think that you wondered about Kathy is the nicest compliment. You’re right there is conflict and a shambling around for position. I tried to show it a bit with kathy not getting mirror space and some girls not getting the right bracelets combinations but reflecting on your words I see where I could have done so much more. I’m taking it seriously kate, I’m going to flsh things out– thank you.

Katie, thank you very much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful review. You’re right. To be honest I felt a twinge of something writing some of those telling lines and articulating her fears rather than showing and I should have listened to my gut. I think I got caught up in the “poetry” if you will, of the repeating lines. Thank you for the advice, I know it will help me with my next writing.

Stephanie, Thank-you for taking the time to read and review. hah yes, a mistake in the last line. It was supposed to be kathy. I remember those Sweet Valley High books as well. You got it. I really wanted to show that being a “top girl” didn’t cement her status and not being chosen shook her confidence and maybe a bit of rebellion at being chosen by a boy could make a difference in ranking. You’re right, the ending could be stronger. I think I sometimes rush to get it out of me and I need more discipline in fleshing things out– thank you so much.

Thank you so much, Scott. I think you’re absolutely right about emotion. I usually tend toward emotion and your words initially gave me pause. But you’re right. there was lots of room for expansion. The easy answer is that working as a reporter for a number of years took a lot of emotion out of my writing. But I do think it is more than that. to give emotion sometimes means giving it up on the page and I appreciate that reminder more than I can say.

Lee, Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review. Your kind words have given me a confidence boost. Yes this mini story was about girls I didn’t consider whether boys would be interested but that is something to think about –thank you!

Lee, thank you very much for sending such a sweet message. I was pretty sure what you were writing about and I wanted to be there for you but I was uneasy maybe I had said the wrong things so your message comes through like a bird-song. xoxo

The idea of a writers unboxed blog is a great one. I would be pleased to be a part of something like that. Would there be a theme? Do you have people in mind?

Yes! The drama in bands would be a fun way to keep a story moving forward, I thought anyway. you’re such a darling.

Your offer to beta read is very generous. I know you must be busy. I really appreciate it.