Because this contest is so important to me, I'm going to be letting a handful of people read through the story in hopes of them providing feedback before I submit the final draft. I usually use my oldest son and my wife, but I'd like to find a less biased group of people that I can trust to provide honest feedback but also not be afraid to shout praises (that's not to say my wife doesn't gently--but honestly--inform me when something doesn't sit well with her). If you're not a Facebook friend of mine then you haven't seen my status:
"I'm looking for the following people who fit at least half of these criteria to read a story of mine next week before I submit it. Send me a message.
1. Neurotic.
2. Over analyzer.
3. Grammar Nazi.
4. Picky.
5. Is allergic to mainstream music.
6. Dry sense of humor.
7. Eccentric.
8. Loves to read."
Because I'm sensitive with my material, I won't just send it out to anyone. I don't trust people. The writing world is immense and the internet seemingly endless. It wouldn't take much for my story to end up in the slimy hands of a dishonest degenerate set on making it theirs.
As much as I'd like to fill this entry with wit and cool-sounding words whipped up together to create some entertainment goulash, I've a story to write! Prayers welcome!