[Critique Group 2] Regrets and "Hello!"

[Alice Massa]

Dear Group 2 writer friends,


     As Leonard can confirm, I had planned to call him on Friday and 
Saturday, but was unable to do so; then, I was determined to take the 
time to call him on Sunday and even told my sister that I had to call 
Leonard on Sunday.  However, thankfully, Leonard telephoned me on Sunday 
before I had a chance to dial him.  I explained to him that I would not 
be able to participate tonight--most regretfully.  I had been thinking 
positively--that is, I hoped that I would have been able to send you a 
piece for critique prior to my leaving Michigan; and I thought that if 
all went smoothly and easily, I would be able to join you all tonight.  
Of course, all did not go smoothly nor easily with my move back to 
Milwaukee.  Nevertheless, I am counting my blessings and am rejoicing in 
how happy Willow is to be back on her familiar and varied routes in 
Milwaukee.  I was so glad to be back that I was ready to hug a 
trolley!!  Can you believe this?  Since every appliance, except the 
refrigerator, did not work at all or properly, all appliances have been 
or will be changed.  A long list of other items had to be taken care of 
by maintenance as well.  Since I moved in on October 20, maintenance has 
been here each day, including today.  With more days of maintenance work 
ahead, I do hope these guys remain well.  What a friend is Lysol at this 
extraordinary time!  The other good news is that I do have a newly 
painted townhouse with new carpeting which I really like. Soon, I will 
have all new window blinds.  I could go on, but I am certain you have 
the idea as to why I cannot be there tonight.  My sister leaves early on 
Sunday, and we have much more to do.  Of course, one more glinch in the 
move is that my sister developed an eye issue in both eyes and is at the 
ophthamologist right now. She may not return until shortly before the 
critique session begins; thus, I will not drop by for even a few 
minutes, as I had previously thought a possibility.  Read on for apology 
to Brad and Valerie!


     Brad and Valerie--So very sorry that you did not hear that I would 
not be participating tonight!  Brad, I wish I could give you back the 
hour you lost in hunting for my nonexistent piece!  I do apologize.  I 
hoped to have my internet connected on Monday, but did not until 
yesterday when over two hundred e-mails awaited me. Sorry I was not able 
to respond sooner.  I do have the same e-mail address

alicejmassa at gmail.com

New landline is 414/249-3878.  My cell is the same: 414/339-2496.  
However, calling my landline is better.


     Any evening which you choose in November will work for me as far as 
I know now.


Take care, stay well, and enjoy the critique session!

With best wishes and apologies,

Alice