I look forward to writing conferences and approach the unknown with an attitude of hope.
- I hope to learn something new. Just one tip can make the difference in a project.
- I hope to spend quality time with my writing friends. Their successes give me MORE hope and motivation. They are my cheerleaders that provide encouragement. (I am happy to cheer them on as well.)
- I hope to meet someone new. You never know where that interaction will take you. I met a wonderful person at a workshop at Writers and Books a little over a year ago. She has grown to be one of my closest writing friends and partners in prayer.
So, when I signed up for the SCBWI Spring Fever conference, I arrived on Saturday with a great deal of hope.
Laura Whitaker showed us that the opening lines were critical to inviting the reader into the book. Of course we all know that, but her presentation demonstrated the full meaning of the power of words. In addition, we listened to the inspirational messages for illustrators and writers from London Ladd and Bruce Coville, who presented in very different and creative ways. I definitely learned something new.
Many RACWI members attended the conference in Syracuse yesterday. I spent quality time with my writing friends, celebrating their recent successes. One newly acquired agent, two newly published books, and 3+ toasts to their accomplishments! (Okay, it may have been more than three).
I sat down with Amy Boggs to discuss one of my picture books. She provided guidance in her detailed notes. I am so grateful for her professional insight and appreciated the time we spent together. I was pleased to meet Amy for the first time, and as a result, I am motivated to get those revisions done! (they include the 2 picture books I brought to the conference, but also the nonfiction book I have been struggling with to revise.) As I write this, I realize that each new person I meet influences my life in some way.
A positive attitude can be fruitful… which brings forth joy. I left feeling validated as a writer…and with joy as my future as a published author draws near.
P.S. Thank you to Kim Jakway and all the organizers of the event!
Dove Note: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
