Wednesday, August 13, 2008

He Watches Over Me - Part II

The Lord not only answered many of my prayers during this conference, but He also had some special blessings up His sleeve. I was aware author, Mary E. DeMuth, would be on the faculty. I planned to get her book and hoped she would sign it. At first, I didn't even see her.

After a Q&A panel, I went up to her and introduced myself. She said she'd be happy to sign my book. The next day, at The Writers' View 2 luncheon, she chatted for a bit and posed with me for a picture.

Author, Lisa Samson, was also at the conference. On Saturday, she had lunch with us. I was encouraged as she shared some of her writing experiences.

Susan May Warren taught two workshops. After the first session, I went up to her and introduced myself. She recognized me as one of the people on her My Book Therapy group. We spoke briefly, and she told me about a benefit of My Book Therapy. I've signed up for a special weekly email.

In addition to faculty members, I met people from several states. We swapped business cards and promised to keep in touch. I've made so many new writer friends during the four years I've attended The Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference.

When I arrived home, Mom took possession of Mary's book (Watching theTree Limbs) and devoured it in 2 days. I guess I get my love for reading from her. Last night, I started Mary's book and was immediately drawn into the story. I can't wait to read the rest of it.

Although all my writer dreams didn't come true, I learned more about the craft. My book will reflect those lessons in the coming months. I also felt prompted to branch out and experiment with different types of writing. Refreshed, I'm ready to continue my journey.

5 comments:

Sarah said...

It sounds like you got a lot out of the conference. *sigh* I'm looking forward to the day when I can finally go to a conference.

How long had you been writing before you went to your first?

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Sarah -

I'm blessed to live an hour from a major conference, which means no airfare or hotel expenses. Check out conferences online, there may be a regional one near you.

I went to a small, one-day conference about a year after I started seeking publication. An ezine editor liked my work and asked me to do a devotional. The following year, I attended my first big conference.

Someday, I'd like to go the the American Christian Fiction Writers Conference (ACFW). Since it's usually far away, the big issues are time and money.

Any new posts at your blog?

Blessings,
Susan :)

Sarah said...

I live about 4 hours away from the Blue Ridge Mountains conference, which means gas and hotel. Someday, though.

I tried to get one devotion published, it ended up being my very first rejection! :)

I've posted a few more times since the last time I talked to you.

Have you ever visited Rachelle Gardner's (agent) blog? It is awesome! She's having a contest today that involves a 10 page critique to the winner.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Sarah -

I'd see if there are any one-day conferences in your area. If you can locate a writers' group, they might know of something closer to home.

Rachelle Gardner is on my blogroll. Her blog is a daily stop for me.

Susn Titus Osborne has an excellent booklet on writing devotionals. I learned a lot from her. Two important aspects of devotional writing is to stick to one subject and write tight.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Sarah said...

Whoops, sorry. Didn't see her on your blogroll.