This past week was extra busy with work and Sweetie Peach getting sick--but I had signed up to attend the American Night Writer's Conference in Phoenix and was not about to miss it. I had never been to a writer's conference before, although there are many I would have loved to attend (O, to live in Utah!). I committed to myself last summer that I would definitely be at the ANWA conference this year. And can I just say, I am so glad I went!
My favorite two classes were taught by Elana Johnson, author of the upcoming book Possession (which I am so going to read). She was such a fun presenter; I loved her relaxed style that had me laughing through 4 (count 'em F-O-U-R) hours of class time. And not only that, I learned so much. I was talking to my friend and carpool partner afterward and we were both so impressed.
I was also able attend a class by Janette Rallison (one of my favorite authors whom I aspire to write like). I admit I did not go up and meet her personally, but someday I plan to gush all over her and get her autograph. In another class I attended, though, Janette Rallison was only two seats away from me.
And I have saved the best news for last. During the conference I had a pitch appointment with a senior editor at Covenant Communications that went fabulously. Yes, he called one of my manuscript ideas "brilliant" and said to send it to him right away. (And I somehow did not fall out of my chair or start drooling all over him--don't even ask me how I was able to accomplish that.)
So all in all I would say my first writing conference was a huge success. And I must admit I am very much looking forward to the next.
Congrats on the great pitch meeting with the rep from Covenent! Keep us posted.
ReplyDeleteYay!!! I can't wait to hear about the manuscript. So excited for you!!
ReplyDeleteThat's so cool. I think I'm going to go to LDS Storymakers conference this year. I'm trying to get up my nerve. :)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations!! What a fun time! You got to learn great things, meet fun people and be called brilliant!! All in one night. I could use a night like that!
ReplyDeleteOh, congrats, Rebecca! It was great to meet you at the conference and I don't think I saw you after the pitch sessions to find out how it went. I'm so glad it went well.
ReplyDeleteSounds like an awesome way to spend an evening.
ReplyDeleteThat's great news! I hope all goes well. Keep us posted.
ReplyDeleteI so know what you mean! I am always drooling over the writer's conference info coming out of Utah. But I live in Washington state, and that's just too big of an expense for me to justify right now.
ReplyDeleteMaybe I should check some out around here.