American Christian Fiction Writers - 2010 conference in Indianapolis is next month!

A little about me and my relationship with ACFW as an organization...

 I'm a published author because of ACFW. 

Here is a pic of me at the book signing last year in Denver.

I've been attending ACFW conferences since 2004. The first year I hoped to attend I dumped out a large bottle of change and came up with just enough money to pay the registration that year. I really wanted to hear Francine Rivers speak and she was the keynote that year. My husband bought the plane ticket because he loved Francine Rivers, too. And I met my first roommate on the ACFW loop (she only took me because I told her I didn't snore...just kidding.) We became fast friends and she is currently my editor and the owner of Sheaf House. I was so inspired by Francine Rivers and my new friend/roommate that I decided to keep plugging away at writing and learning the craft. I also met my agent that year and signed with their agency in early 2005. How's that for early success? Did I mention I was elected to the ACFW board for a two year term? That was a nice surprise. When I signed on to participate in the election process I never expected to actually win.

 Here is a pic of me at the 2008 banquet announcing the winner of the volunteer of the year award.  I was the Volunteer Officer.

In 2007 I signed my first book contract. Without ACFW that never would have happened. I could go on an on about all of the things I love about the organization, but that would take a long time to cover. I especially love the people. The first year I attended I was trying to figure out how to get to know people and the Lord gave me a great idea. I hosted a chocolate party in my room. There were about 40 people total who stopped by that night and I did break the ice that way. I still host a party in my room every year. This year's party will be Friday night due to the change in schedule for the conference.

Here is a pic of me with Gail Sattler at the chocolate party last year.

Joining an organization like ACFW is a "must" for aspiring authors and book lovers. My favorite place to hang out during the conference is at the book store. I admit, I'm addicted to books. I also love getting autographs. I have quite a collection. So why should you attend the ACFW conference this year (or next?) It's the place to find out the latest and greatest when it comes to the industry. It's fun, entertaining (love Brandilyn's emcee role), and the place to meet editors and agents face to face that you've only heard about. I have so many books coming down the pike through 2012 that I'll be looking at 2013 for future contracts myself. This year I am going to see all of my friends again. It's like one big happy reunion every year and spiritual retreat at the same time. There is worship, prayer, great food and fellowship, etc. I look forward to ACFW every year. I can't wait to see you all there.

Last, here is a picture of me with Julie Lessman at the ACFW bookstore. She's a  great friend and author. I never would have met her or any of my other awesome author friends in person, if not for ACFW conferences I've attended over the years.

Some pics from conference in Minneapolis sent to me by a friend.

This is a really cool pic my friend Shar took of my media spot at the Mall of America back in September. See how my photo and book info is up on the big screen! Awesome!

This is a picture of several of my chocolate loving gals from the party in my room.

Me at breakfast with some other authors. We all write VERY different stuff.

Conference is coming!

The days are ticking away. Thankfully I have my volunteers all lined up and ready to work! My book is lined up for the signing and the buzz is already going on about this year's signing as well as the Genesis and BOTY finalists. We all want to know who is going to win, of course. I'm even getting a dress made for the banquet. This is a first for me. I'm not a fancy person. The dress was a good deal and the tailor is my friend so the rates were fab. But enough about me. This year's conference is going to be phenomenal. And to top it all off, we're having our fifth annual chocolate party. I'll be posting details the week of conference so make sure to check back Wednesday or Thursday that week as I'll post the room number. The time will be 8-11 PM and the day is Thursday night. See y'all then!

Back from Women of Faith Conference 2007 - Amazing Freedom!!!

Saturday I went to Women of Faith 2007 in Glendale Arizona with my good friend Gloria. Here is a picture of the two of us. :)



The speakers were excellent. Some of the ladies were the same speakers that I saw the first time I went to Women of Faith back in 1998. It's hard to believe it's been almost ten years since that time. Barbara Johnson was one of the speakers back in 1998. I still remember getting a "splash of joy" from her. She died this past year from cancer at the age of 79. Then there was Sheila Walsh. She was just as beautiful and inspirational as she was ten years ago. Patsy Clairmont was also there. She looked older but was just as sweet. Luci Swindoll also spoke. I remembered her as well. And then there was Sandi Patty who rocked the house with her hymns. The last time I saw her was 20 years ago in Syracuse, NY, in concert. The women shared powerful testimonies and really ministered to every woman there. Nicole C. Mullen danced and jammed with her crew for the final song before we parted. That woman can sing. Oy, and the energy she exudes is admirable. There were other speakers and a great worship team that really knew how to lead people to the throne of grace. I'm glad I had a chance to go even if it was just the last day. Normally I wouldn't drive over 200 miles for a one day conference, but the Lord used that time to speak to my heart about the Amazing Freedom we can have in Christ despite our circumstances. That is something He has been really teaching me in the past few years. Life is hard, but God is good. Peace!