Once upon a time, eight years ago to be exact, I was a fledgling author with a newly published short story anthology. I’d recently started a blog and occasionally received more than two comments on my posts! Sigh.
One April Wednesday morning in 2012 as I scrolled through my Facebook feed I saw a notice on the Ozarks Writers League, OWL, page from someone named Madison Woods. It was a reminder that it was time for Friday Fictioneers, a weekly blog challenge that would change the course of my life.
I was hooked from the first prompt.
(I had a lot to learn about commenting and reciprocation 😉 )
Who knew that six months later I’d be adopting Madison’s baby? Enough of that! The purpose of this post is to introduce you to the lady, author and artist who birthed the idea of Friday Fictioneers.
© Madison Woods, Friday Fictioneers’ Birth Mother
Original Artwork © Madison Woods
Rochelle Wisoff-Fields-Addicted to Purple 
Hi Rochelle, the day you stepped up and volunteered to become the new Mother of Drago… er, I mean Fictioneers! Well, it was a life-saving day. For me and the Friday Fictioneers. I had too many other things going on to keep up with it, and all those wonderful writers had organized into something that took on a precious life of their own. The Fictioneers needed the love and creative expertise you brought to the table. And they have thrived. I’m so proud when I drop in on various members from time to time. I may do so silently, but I am still there, lurking around the halls and smiling as I go. Thank you.
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Dear Madison,
I’ve never regretted my decision which is not to say I haven’t questioned my sanity a time or two. Nah, it has all been worth it; the friends I’ve made (and lost 😉 ). The exercise of writing a story in 100 words is a great way to learn how to conserve words. You gave me a great gift, even if the baby throws an occasional temper tantrum. Feel free to lurk any time. ❤ Thank YOU!
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thanks for sharing this Rochelle! Until now, I’d always assumed you always ran Friday Fictioneers. What a fascinating predecessor you had!
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Dear Anne,
According to Madison, I’ve lead the challenge longer than she did and have gone farther than she would have. Nice to hear. Still, I like to give credit where it’s due. She is quite a fascinating person and someone I’m proud to call friend. Thank you for taking the time to read and comment. 😀 That means a lot.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Yes, you have and YES you did 😀
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Dear Rochelle,
Thank you for introducing me to Madison. What a wonderfully creative person! I’m rather chuffed you signed up to take over for her, though 😉
Shalom and lotsa love,
Dale
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Dear Dale,
She is indeed. When I joined Friday Fictioneers I had no clue of where it would take me. Even Jan agrees that taking it on is one of the most significant decisions I’ve ever made. Thanks for being part of it. 😀 ❤
Shalom and lotsa hugs for all that love,
Rochelle
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I, for one, am particularly glad you did… And am beyond pleased Sarah pushed me to join!
xoxo
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Me too!
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Thanks to Madison.
Wonderful article. Nice to read about Madison and know more about her.
Also, thanks to you Rochelle, for your great dedication and love that you have given to Friday Fictioneers!!!!!! You are amazing!
Randy
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Dear Randy,
Aaw such a sweet comment. It is a great article, isn’t it? And so well deserved. Thanks again. ❤
Shabbat Shalom,
Rochelle
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I knew right from the beginning this was a fantastic match for you. I have seen so much growth in your writing, and also artwork, that I am in awe. I thank Madison a bunch for allowing you to take it over. Only one problem. I have to make an appointment to see your now. lol.
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Dear Jan,
You really did love my flash fictions right from the beginning, didn’t you? That was so encouraging. Come to think of it, you were one of the ones who noodged me to ask Madison to let me take it. You obviously saw something I didn’t at the time. Thank you for that. It does keep me busy. I think I might have an opening for you a week from Tuesday. Thank you for understanding.
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I’m so glad you chose to share the story of how you became the ‘captain of Friday Fictioneers Rochelle. I’ve always wondered. Madison sounds like a talented and inspiring woman,and you carried on from her.
I love the challenge of writing once a week, and the discipline of the 100 words – that has taught me a lot and gives me a good nudge to write every Wednesday !
Thank you.
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