ARE WRITERS' CONFERENCES WORTH IT?

 I just returned from the American Christian Fiction Writers Conference in St. Louis. It wasn't cheap and it took a chunk of time out of my life. So, was it worth it? The answer is: Yes!

Not everything went smoothly. Our first night at the hotel, my daughter-in-love, Shaen, went to get us some ice. She didn't realize that she needed her key card to operate the elevator and got trapped! She had to wait quite a while until someone else got on and used their card so she could get back to our floor. That same night, the people in the room next door partied until after 3:00 a.m. They yelled and swore and carried on until we finally decided to call down to the desk. They sent someone up to ask them to be quiet, but it only made them angry - and louder. So, on Saturday we were pretty tired. There were a few other hiccups but...Friday night we hosted a table for Storyfest, an event created to bring authors and their readers together. I was able to meet several readers, including some who have been on my launch teams. It was wonderful. Also, we met some other incredibly awesome people. We shared a meal, we talked, and we laughed so hard I had tears in my eyes. 

The next day, I had breakfast with my agent, Steve Laube, who won the ACFW Agent of the Year Award!. I can't tell you how special it was. We'd only met in person once - and it was many years ago. But we sat at the table and talked for two hours. By the time we left, he wasn't just my agent. He was my friend. 

Saturday, I had lunch with one of my incredible editors and two of the wonderful people who work in promotions for Bethany House. It was so nice to "see" the people I've only talked to online. When we were done, I felt as if we really were a team. I loved them! 

At the conference, I got to connect with authors I haven't seen for quite some time, as well as meet other precious readers and authors. I believe I left with new friends - and a closer relationship with the authors, the readers, and the professionals who help me birth my book babies into the world. 

So, if you ever wonder whether writers; conferences are worth it? Take it from me. You'll get to spend time with some of the best people in the world and make connections that will last a lifetime, It's an experience you won't soon forget. Go!