The annual American Christian Fiction Writers conference was a month ago and a few others have already posted about their experiences. But two nights ago, at the monthly meeting of the Minnesota chapter of ACFW, a panel of 6 of us shared conference highlights with those who weren’t able to attend this year. So, since it’s top of mind for me again, I thought I would share a few of my highlights here.
Members of the Minnesota Chapter of ACFW.
One highlight was winning ACFW’s Mentor of the Year award. I knew I had been nominated by someone from my local chapter, but I never expected to win, and hadn’t even thought of what I would say if I had to get up and give a speech. (I don’t remember exactly what I said, but was later complimented because I “kept it short.”)
Becky Wade, Robin Lee Hatcher, Jody Hedlund & Julie Klassen
I initially hesitated to post anything about the award here or on Facebook, because I felt I hadn’t done anything significant enough to deserve it. I am thankful that since that night, my summer intern and several other writers from my local chapter have affirmed the honor. I’ll share just one brief portion of Heather’s well-written nomination letter:
I explained I had started a dozen books in my lifetime, but had never completed any of them. She encouraged me and told me she would be willing to help me along the way…. As I started writing my book, I begged her, “Don’t let me quit.”
“Oh, don’t worry,” she assured. “I won’t.”
She has remained true to this promise.
…Over the last few years, I have hit many pitfalls…. she gave me the space I needed to lick my wounds, but would remind me I couldn’t quit. If I didn’t bounce back fast enough, she would email me persistently until I got back to writing.
So, basically, I was named the Mentor of the Year because I am an award-winning nag. My husband and sons could have told you that years ago. 🙂 Whatever the reason, winning the award was one highlight of the conference.
Wendy Lawton, Deb Raney, Lauraine Snelling, me, Gail Helgeson
Other conference highlights included:
- Taking inspiring and helpful classes like: Essence of Story with Christopher Vogler (If you are a writer and have not read his book, The Writer’s Journey, I would highly recommend it. At least visit his web site at thewritersjourney.com). I also found author Kim Vogel Sawyer’s class on Building a Professional Speaking Ministry helpful.
Fun with Sarah Ladd
- Spending time with authors I only get to see at conferences, like Sarah Ladd, who also writes Regency-era novels.
- Meeting writers for the first time, like Katherine Reay and many others.
- Spending time in person with fellow writers from our Inspired by Life and Fiction blog.
- Spending time with my agent, Wendy Lawton, and keynote speaker, Lauraine Snelling.
- Seeing some friends from my publisher, Bethany House.
- Dressing up in my Regency-era gown for the “Genre Dinner.”
- But the best part for me? The praise and worship time. There is something special about being in a room with 600 or so writers and publishing professionals all praising our savior, some lifting hands or swaying, some still. A freedom to worship however you are comfortable. A stirring awareness of the presence of the Holy Spirit. All led by talented author and singer Rachel Hauck and her praise band. Wonderful.
ACFW praise: photo by Patricia Bradley
I don’t know that I will be able to attend again next year, but I will certainly plan to attend another ACFW conference soon. If you’ve attended this or another conference, any highlights you’d like to share?
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I really love the praise and worship time at the conference, too, Julie. It’a a favorite!
Thanks, Becky. It was great meeting you, by the way. Congrats on your award!
Your Mentor Award was absolutely well-earned! We are all so proud of you, and blessed to call you friend. 🙂
The praise & worship time is always my favorite, too. There’s something about joining with 100’s of people, coming from diverse backgrounds, all praising the same God. Gives me goosebumps just thinking about it!
Aw, thanks, Brenda. I appreciate it. And am so glad to be on your team at MN Nice!
Julie, I’m so glad you won! You are truly an encouragement to authors. I emailed you a few years ago and submitted the first few pages of my mail order bride series. You gave me a kind and very helpful critique and much encouragement. I have an agent now and we’ve sent that series to several publishers and there are many more novels written and WIPS. You are very deserving of the award. Thanks for taking the time to answer a newbie author. It meant a lot to me.
Blessings,
Lorraine
Hi Lorraine, Nice to hear from you again. Glad to know things are going well!
Hmmm, next year I’ll sign up for the Nag Award. You made me laugh out loud. 🙂
Thanks, Melissa! Great seeing you again this year. Congrats on all the good things happening in your life!
The ACFW Conference is always a huge blessing to me, and this year was no exception.
LOVE seeing my writer friends and meeting new ones, learning in classes, and as you mentioned—the praise and worship! 🙂
Congratulations on your Mentor Award, Julie – – and it was WONDERFUL seeing you again!! 🙂
Hugs, Patti Jo
So good to see you there, Patti Jo. I feel I’ve come to know you a bit through the blog. Glad you had a great conference, too!