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Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

Friends, Awards, and Pancakes

September 1, 2016 By Karen Witemeyer

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Last week, I attended the American Christian Fiction Writers conference in Nashville. I felt like I had come full circle. The very first ACFW conference I attended had also been in Nashville, back in 2005. Four years before I signed my first contract.

Now that I’m published, the conference is less about pitching book ideas and more about networking, sharing fellowship with other authors, learning more about the industry, and nurturing relationships with my publishing house team.

This year, there was an added bonus of meeting several readers. My favorite! The day before the conference, a group of avid Christian fiction readers met for their own day with several authors. I wasn’t able to attend, but many stayed through the conference and lobby-stalked us. So fun! I had the joy of meeting several of them.

ReadersAnd, of course, I always love catching up with author friends I only get to see once a year.

Author friends - Carol Moncado, Natalie Monk, Kristi Ann Hunter, Katie Cushman, Sarah Loudin Thomas, and the entire lineup from Baker Books

Author friends – Carol Moncado, Natalie Monk, Kristi Ann Hunter, Katie Cushman, Sarah Loudin Thomas, and the entire lineup from Baker Books

As you can see from that last picture, Baker Book authors (Bethany House and Revel) had the honor of being invited to tour the LifeWay facility. I was expecting to see a warehouse and offices, but what I got was a one-of-a-kind museum. My history-loving soul was in heaven.

All these pictures were taken inside the LifeWay corporate headquarters.

Wall and stained-glass windows from the actual First Baptist Church Building where the founder of Lifeway officed.

Wall and stained-glass windows from the actual First Baptist Church Building where the founder of Lifeway officed.

Reproduction of the Dr. R. L. Smith study - pastor of the First Baptist Church of Nashville from 1890-1892. He was president of the Sunday School Board. The Board elected Dr. James Frost as Corresponding Secretary and therefore the Father of LifeWay.

Reproduction of the Dr. R. L. Smith study – pastor of the First Baptist Church of Nashville from 1890-1892. He was president of the Sunday School Board. The Board elected Dr. James Frost as Corresponding Secretary and therefore the Father of LifeWay.

 

 

Replica of a Sunday School room with an organ and hymnals representing LifeWay's rich history not only in Sunday School curriculum but also in hymn writing.

Replica of a Sunday School room with an organ and hymnals representing LifeWay’s rich history not only in Sunday School curriculum but also in hymn writing.

 

LifeWay got it’s start in 1891 as a way to publish Sunday School curriculum. They expanded into hymnals and vacation Bible school programs. They also started publishing books.

In cases around the office were numerous old Bibles, some dating back to the 1400s. What a rich history!

The visit to LifeWay was a definite highlight of the conference, but I must admit that there was one event that eclipsed it.

My book, A Worthy Pursuit, was a finalist in the Historical Romance category for the Carol Award, one of the premier awards for Christian fiction. And at the Gala Saturday night, I heard my name being called! What a thrill. An honor. An incredibly humbling experience.

A Worthy Pursuit Cover SmallCarol Award

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, to put the cherry on top – or raspberry as the case may be – on Sunday morning, my husband and I made one final stop before leaving Nashville. The Pancake Pantry is a Nashville institution and I can understand why. The pancakes were delicious. I opted for the raspberry delight. Yumm!

Pancake Pantry 2Pancake Pantry 1

 

 

 

And as if this place wasn’t perfect enough already, right across the street was the fabulous bookstore…

Bookman-womanIn honor of my amazing weekend, I want to celebrate with you by giving away two copies of A Worthy Pursuit. Leave a comment about one of your favorite weekends.

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Karen Witemeyer

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and gospel hymn singer who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she's on deadline. Learn more about Karen and her books at: www.karenwitemeyer.com.
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Filed Under: Friendship, Writing Tagged With: A Worthy Pursuit, ACFW, Carol Award, giveaway

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Comments

  1. Bonnie Roof says

    September 1, 2016 at 4:09 am

    One of the most favorite weeks and weekends in my entire life was last week. As one of the organizers of the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat (CFRR), I was blessed beyond words by the retreat and the many authors (35+ in attendance) and readers who told me how encouraging and inspiring the retreat was for them. I was in tears much of the week as I was humbled by the way God led in the organizing of the retreat, as well as His presence in the retreat itself.

    Arriving in Nashville Monday a week ago – the other two retreat organizers (Carrie and Annie) and myself also enjoyed pancakes at the Pancake Pantry before getting to work putting the finishing touches on the retreat. Being one of those lobby-stalkers you spoke of, LOL – it was also my pleasure to meet you, have some labels signed to place in my books, and have my picture taken with you. I met and fellowshipped with so many gifted authors and reader friends, making beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

    Thank you for being so gracious and thanks for the giveaway opportunity!!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:13 am

      I was so sad to miss out on the Readers Retreat this time, Bonnie. From all I heard from authors who attended, it was a great event. You gals must have done a fabulous job organizing. If you do another one next year in Dallas, please put me on your guest list. Since I live in Texas, I can be much more flexible with my travel itinerary and would love to participate.

      Meeting you and several of the others in the lobby was still terrific, and I loved having the change to sign books or stickers or even one lady’s shirt. Ha! What a time of blessing!

  2. Linda Horin says

    September 1, 2016 at 4:25 am

    Congratulations on your award! It is well deserved! One of my favorite weekends recently was when my husband and I went to St. Michael’s, Maryland for our 39th anniversary. We had not been away just the two of us in many years. We also stayed in a bed and breakfast for the first time, something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. We had a lovely, relaxing trip!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:14 am

      That sounds wonderful, Linda! I’ve always wanted to do the Bed and Breakfast thing. I did one once with my daughter on a special trip we took when she turned 13, but never with my husband. I’ll have to start dropping hints. Our 25th is coming up next year. 🙂

  3. kwh says

    September 1, 2016 at 5:23 am

    One of my favorite weekends was just this summer! Our daughter is getting married in a couple of months, so we did not have a budget for a large trip for our 30th anniversary this year. My husband surprised me with a weekend stay at a very nice hotel in the city where we live and we had a wonderful time playing “tourist” in our own city.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:16 am

      What a fun idea! I love that. I’m the worst at missing out on what is available right in my own town. It’s just my town. Nothing special. Wrong! One day I actually stopped to read some of the historical markers downtown and I was blown away by some of the incredible things that had happened back in the early settlement days. You don’t have to go somewhere exotic to have a great time. 🙂

  4. Rebecca Maney says

    September 1, 2016 at 5:36 am

    Even though it wasn’t on a weekend, I did attend the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat in Nashville and count it a blessing to have met so many wonderful writers and readers. We couldn’t hang an extra day to “author-stalk”, but it would have been so nice to meet you. Congratulations on your well deserved award.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:17 am

      Thanks, Rebecca. I hope this Reader event becomes and annual thing. I would love to participate in the future. It sounds like so much fun. I hope we get a chance to meet up in person sometime soon. 🙂

  5. Elizabeth Litton says

    September 1, 2016 at 5:55 am

    One of my favorite weekends was earlier this year in April when my sister and one of my brothers and I flew out to Montana for a week-long vacation on a working ranch. It was the first time flying for my brother and I and we had so much fun looking out the windows at the landscape. The turbulence was awesome as well. That weekend (and week) will always be remembered because of all the memories we made!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:22 am

      That sounds fabulous, Elizabeth! I’ve always wanted to visit a Montana Dude Ranch. I’m sure I could write off the expense as research for my novels. 😉 I just have to find the time to get away.

      And I think you officially the first person to ever utter the words – “The turbulence was awesome as well.” Ha! You must love a good rollercoaster.

  6. Kathy Johnson says

    September 1, 2016 at 6:57 am

    My favorite weekend this year was in June when my family had a BIG reunion. This happens every year – it has become multi-generational – the result being that I now know many more members of my extended family! Precious memories were made and there is always wonderful ways of reconnecting with family that is now spread out all over the country!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:23 am

      What a great way to stay in touch. Both sides of my family are small, so we don’t really have the official reunions, but my husband’s parents will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this year, and we are going to try to get everyone together to celebrate. I’m certainly looking forward to that!

  7. Stacey Cochran says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:07 am

    Anytime that my husband and I go anywhere is a fun time! My favorite (for this year so far) has to be our weekend in Chattanooga for his birthday. We had so much fun and came back so relaxed.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:25 am

      What a fun tradition, Stacey. And a great way to keep the romance alive. We drove past Chattanooga this weekend on our way out of Nashville. I smiled at the sign announcing it as the home of the Chattanooga Choo Choo. 🙂 Being a fan of 1940s music, I immediately related.

  8. Lynn Austin says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:33 am

    Congratulations on your Carol Award, Karen! Well-deserved!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:26 am

      Thanks, Lynn! I’ll be smiling for a while, I think. A good residual effect.

  9. Becky Wade says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:54 am

    The ACFW conference last weekend was definitely one of my favorite weekends! It was so much fun to cheer you on as you won a Carol Award. Well deserved, Karen!!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:26 am

      Thanks, Becky. It was a fun time. Especially hanging with you and Dani and the rest of the BHP gang. 🙂

  10. Carrie Turansky says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:56 am

    Congratulations, Karen! I know we only spoke for a brief moment at ACFW, but it was wonderful to see you and cheer for you when you won the Carol Award. The tour of Lifeway headquarters sounds wonderful!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 8:30 am

      Thanks, Carrie. I wish we had had more time to chat. Conference is always such a whirlwind. LifeWay is actually in the process of moving to a new building. I hope they find a way to keep all those treasures. It would be a shame to lose that slice of history.

  11. Angie Quantrell says

    September 1, 2016 at 8:34 am

    What a fun time! I’ve just noticed that I follow several authors who went to the same conference. LOL. I love reading their highlights – each one unique and from a different standpoint. My most recent favorite weekend was getting away with girlfriends at the beach. Oh, and we get to repeat our get-together this month! Thanks for sharing with us.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:32 am

      What fun, Angie! And you get a repeat performance? Awesome! Hope you enjoy. 🙂 (It’s the beach. How could you not? LOL)

  12. Betty Strohecker says

    September 1, 2016 at 8:35 am

    We just returned from visiting our daughter in California. On our last weekend there, a highlight was Sunday brunch aboard the Queen Mary which is permanently docked in Long Beach harbor. This is an amazing experience!

    Congratulations on your award and thanks for the giveaway!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:33 am

      What a lovely memory. I’ve never been on the Queen Mary. I bet it was fascinating!

  13. Shirley Chapel says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:14 am

    I have spent many a favorite weekends in my 70 year life span. One I spent with my hubby in 2014 stands out in my mind. I’ve long enjoyed the writings of Wanda Brunstetter. She was planning a fan filled weekend in Sugar Creek that September and wanting to become acquainted with her my husband and I made plans to attend.
    The weekend arrived with beautiful weather. We stayed at the lovely Carlisle Inn in Sugar Creek. That evening Wanda and her husband Richard held an introduction dinner at Der Dutchman . We got to meet Wanda and her husband and we all got to know her personally. On Saturday we had a bus tour to Berlin and surrounding towns. We had lunch with Wanda and Richard. The tour people were so kind to my husband , who is disabled and depends on a scooter to get around. They made sure he was accommodated for the tour trip. The entire weekend was awesome. Wanda made herself available to her fans. She was so down to earth as was her husband. I shall never forget this weekend as it is etched in my mind forever.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:34 am

      What a joy! That sounds like something out of a storybook, Shirley. What a beautiful memory. 🙂

  14. Linda Hutchins says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:17 am

    I just got back from a short trip to Door County Wisconsin with a dear friend. We live in different states and don’t see each other often, so this was a special time. We had great weather and a good time just talking about what goes on in our lives. If I hadn’t already had that trip planned I would have loved to come to the readers retreat. Congratulations on your award!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:35 am

      Thanks, Linda. I have a close friend who lives half a country away and we rarely get to see each other. I know what a treasure those times are. So glad you and your friend had the chance to spend the weekend together.

  15. Amy M. says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:19 am

    Congratulations on your award for “A Worthy Pursuit”. Definitely one of my favorites of yours. I, too, attended the CFRR and it was FANTASTIC! Getting to meet and interact with some of my favorite authors? Dream. Come. True. When I heard they are planning on another one next year, I was thrilled. Definitely plan on going, and fingers crossed you’ll be able to come as well.

    As far as one of my favorite weekends, I would have to say touring the Biltmore in Asheville, NC. Amazing to see that enormous estate that was built over 100 years ago.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:37 am

      Wow, Amy. That does sound fabulous. Such luxury mixed with history at the Biltmore. I’ve never been but would love to see it.

      And, yes, I will definitely plan to attend next year’s CFRR if at all possible. 🙂

  16. Adrienne says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:21 am

    Congratulations on your award!
    One of my best weekends was a really quick trip to North Carolina a few years ago–my husband and I, as well as my mom, dad, step-mom, and three of my sisters and their husbands and kids all got together for a quick weekend. We were there less than 48 hours, but it was fun to see everyone.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:37 am

      Sometimes those quick trips are the best. No time to get tired of each other. Ha! Sounds like a lovely time, Adrienne. 🙂

  17. Cathy C says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:22 am

    Congratulations on your Carol Award! Since reading your debut novel, I have followed the new releases and have greatly enjoyed all your books! My husband and I had a pleasant weekend outing in late March to Fredericksburg, to enjoy the wildflowers plus the historic and quaint charm of the town with its old homes, museums, parks, etc. Nothing more lovely than bluebonnets! We try to make it an annual jaunt.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:39 am

      Can you believe that I’ve never stayed a weekend in Fredericksburg? I’ve driven through it but never stopped to enjoy it’s quaint charm. One of these days I’m going to have to rectify that. Thanks for being such a loyal reader, Cathy!

  18. Gail Hollingsworth says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:25 am

    Congratulations on your award! I’d love to win this book, I remember reading the story of the book cover but didn’t have the extra cash to purchase it at the time.
    Any weekend I can go camping with my husband is my favorite and if it’s at the beach, even better! We can stay for a whole week at Gulf State Park for what one night in a rented condo would cost.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:41 am

      A rented condo is more my level of camping than the tent. Ha! I love hiking and being out in nature, but when the end of the day arrives, I want a real bed, air conditioning, and plumbing in the bathroom. 🙂

  19. Gail Hollingsworth says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:27 am

    Oh, I meant to ask, what is the difference in the Bookman and Bookwoman stores?

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 9:44 am

      I have no idea! It was Sunday morning, so they were closed, but I thought it was just such a fun thing. In my imagination, I’m guessing that the store opened in the sixties and was simply called BookMan. Then around the 80s or 90s the owner’s son took over the family business and when he married, his forward-thinking wife insisted on expanding the store and adding a new sign on the front to read BookWoman. Equality in Literature! Of course, that is pure fiction on my part, but the set up certainly got me to thinking. 🙂

  20. Kim Potter says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:59 am

    Congratulations on the award!!!! I’d have to say that any weekend spent with my family is a favorite; but the three weeks in Europe we spent together as a family was a real treasure. Thanks for the chance to win.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 10:06 am

      Wow! What a great experience. I got to travel with my daughter to Italy and Greece on a school trip, and that was an experience I will never forget. Sharing that with her just made it all the more special.

  21. Han says

    September 1, 2016 at 10:18 am

    My favorite weekend was when me and my 9 siblings got together and just hung out at my parents house. We made snacks watched old movies and had a blast.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 10:50 am

      That sounds great! I love snacks and old movies. I’d break out my cross-stitch, too, and be in hog heaven. 🙂

  22. Lenora says

    September 1, 2016 at 10:34 am

    Great post, Karen. Since I missed ACFW last year, I couldn’t wait to get to Nashville. It was great to end my two months of NOT writing (kinda) with this great event! I was thrilled that you won a Carol award!!! And it was fun to see you at the Pancake Pantry. I had sweet potato pancakes. Oh, my!!! Wish I had some right now. Now I’m reading to get back to work. Those good conference memories will carry me through! And I have lots of new books on my To-Read list! Hope you and your husband enjoyed the rest of your trip 🙂

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 10:51 am

      We did. We spent two days touring waterfalls and had a wonderful time. We had a long drive back on Tuesday, but even just having the time alone with him was enjoyable. Great to see you, Lenora!

  23. Shelli Littleton says

    September 1, 2016 at 10:35 am

    Oh, I’m so grateful for a chance to win your book. Congratulations on the award. Yay! A favorite weekend? I guess any time we go to Disney has to be my favorite … we usually arrive on a Sunday afternoon and head straight to Magic Kingdom. <3

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 10:52 am

      I’m a Disney nut, too, Shelli. In fact, RWA is going to be in Orlando next summer, and I’m thinking about turning a conference trip into a family vacation.

  24. Cheryl H. says

    September 1, 2016 at 10:53 am

    One of my favorite weekends was this past June. My husband and I went to Edinburg, Scotland to celebrate our anniversary! I loved it. While we were there I met an online buddy I’d known for 7 years. What an added treat to finally spend time with her in person. 🙂

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 12:56 pm

      What a fabulous trip, Cheryl! I’ve always wanted to see Scotland. What a great anniversary. And a friendship boost, too. Awesome!

  25. Yvette says

    September 1, 2016 at 10:54 am

    Congratulations! I hope there will be future Christian Fiction Readers Retreats, and that you are able to join in. I’d love to be able to attend as well – and I’m willing to lobby stalk if I have to. 😉
    One of my favorite weekends was a trip to Victoria, BC with a good friend. We toured the Emily Carr house and the Royal BC Museum, including the home of the island’s first doctor, took tea at The Empress and spent a glorious afternoon at the Butchart Gardens.
    Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of A Worthy Pursuit. (I read it as an ebook, so it and Head in the Clouds are the only books missing from your section on my bookshelves)

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 12:59 pm

      What a lovely weekend! That sounds like the ultimate female getaway. And so much history! I would have loved it.

  26. Megan Potter says

    September 1, 2016 at 11:20 am

    One of my favorite weekends was at a Church camp. I got to spend several days with friends and family I hardly get to see, and was able to go to church twice a day too!! Congratulations on your award and thanks for a chance to win this awesome book!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 1:00 pm

      What a sweet choice, Megan. 🙂 I love your spirit. Family, friends, and time with the Lord. What could be better than that?

  27. Leanne W. Smith says

    September 1, 2016 at 11:21 am

    I’m so thrilled for your Carol Award, Karen! Wish I’d thought to get a picture with you. Next time…

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 1:02 pm

      Thanks, Leanne. You were so sweet to come find me both Thursday and Saturday. I wish our paths had crossed more often during the conference. And yes, we definitely need to get a picture together next time. Hope you can make it to Dallas next year.

  28. Susan Anne Mason says

    September 1, 2016 at 12:07 pm

    Hi Karen,
    Congratulations again on your award!! So happy that you received the tangible validation of the worthiness of your work!! Loved sharing some time with you and hope to see you next year! In the meantime, may we both write some beautiful stories!
    Cheers,
    Sue

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 1:03 pm

      Amen, Sue! The quiet walk back from the restaurant on Friday evening is one of my favorite “calm” memories of the trip. Those quiet time at conference are so rare and precious. I’m glad we got to share a few of those moments together.

  29. Laurie King says

    September 1, 2016 at 12:23 pm

    Hello!!:-) One of MY * Favorite Weekends*, was the *Weekend* My Husband and I got Married on January 1st, 2013….and we went to Niagara Falls and stayed overnight there; We got married on the 1st!! On that Friday, December 29th, 2012, we were making “last minute preparations”, as I had 2 kids and I was making sure things were “All set” for them,(My Daughter is Autistic and doesn’t like being left alone!!)….making Sure I picked up My shoes & Dress, and other “last minute details”!!(It was a “Planned Elopement”!!;-) lol) We didn’t have a Very long “Honeymoon”, as the kids went back to school by January 3rd. That year. But, It was A *Special, Magical Time* for Both of Us!! We even got to see the Canadian side of the Falls and found a *HERSHEYS STORE*(LOTS Of Chocolate!! Lol)….and Its a time I Will NEVER *FORGET IT*!!!!:-)

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 1:05 pm

      Chocolate, romance, and waterfalls. What’s not to love.
      I’m a sucker for a good waterfall, and Niagara has to be one of the best. I’ve never seen it in person, but maybe one day I’ll have that joy.

  30. Jacqui says

    September 1, 2016 at 1:11 pm

    Hi Karen, I loved A Worthy Pursuit and I just wanted to say congratulations for a very well deserved award. I love your writing and eagerly await each one of your books. Thanks for blessing my life and encouraging me by using your gift of writing.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 1:20 pm

      Thank you for the beautiful encouragement, Jacqui. 🙂

  31. Cheryl Baranski says

    September 1, 2016 at 1:19 pm

    Congrats on your win Karen. Keep up the wonderful writing. Your books are addicting!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 1:21 pm

      Thanks, Cheryl. Addicting like chocolate without the calories, right? 😉

  32. Karen says

    September 1, 2016 at 1:19 pm

    Back in 2011, my husband and I took our daughter, then 3, up to St. Ignace and Mackinaw Island. That’s what Michiganders do for a cheap vacation, lol. I grew up camping in St. Ignace, and I wanted to show my daughter the beauty of the Upper Peninsula that I love so much. We stayed at a cheap motel right on Lake Huron, and we took our bikes and trailer along so we could ride around Mackinaw Island. We spent the day on the island sightseeing, biking, visiting the butterfly house (the older, bigger, better one), and getting some fudge, of course! Later that evening, as our daughter slept, my husband and I sat out on the porch and ate Chinese takeout. It was such a simple, peaceful end to a lovely day. I wish that we could do that every year, but we don’t live in Michigan anymore. Also, my husband is now disabled and no longer able to ride a bicycle. I’m just grateful that we had that weekend 5 years ago!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 1:22 pm

      Sometimes the simple pleasures are the best ones, Karen. What a beautiful memory to treasure forever.

  33. Jackie Smith says

    September 1, 2016 at 1:25 pm

    Congrats, Karen, on your award and THANKS for the giveaway of A Worthy Pursuit! I have read 7 of your books and am very anxious to read this one!
    My favorite weekend happened 3 yrs. ago when I met with friends from AL and NC (I am in GA) at a reunion of community friends. We have not able to attend since due to health issues…..maybe we can all make it this October!!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 2:03 pm

      Oh, I hope you can make it in October, Jackie! I’ll be praying for good health for you. 🙂

  34. Andrea Stephens says

    September 1, 2016 at 2:06 pm

    Congratulations Karen! I saw a bunch of pictures from the Readers event, I loved the lobby stalkers. I have A Worthy Pursuit on audible, I’d love to add it to my bookcase. My favorite weekend, hmm…pick any day between August 18 and 28, 2016. I got to see my daughter and 2 grandbabies after not seeing them for more than 2 years. Hubby and I made a rare trip to my sister’s house (300 miles away in southern Indiana) where I promptly fell and hurt myself. My daughter lives in Oregon and decided she didn’t care how much it cost she was going to come help take care of me and her medically disabled father. I got to know the boys, 7 and 3 years old, I read to them, played Fruit Ninja and some weird little Lego Junior game. We also watched some cartoons, they did not understand commercials as they are only allowed streaming video or DVD’s. It was so much fun, despite barely being able to walk. I would do it all again. Just to feel those little arms around my neck, best weeks ever!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 2:47 pm

      I love it when God brings such warm blessings out of a painful circumstance. Sounds heavenly, Andrea.

  35. Lisa Cullett says

    September 1, 2016 at 2:12 pm

    One of my favorite weekends would have been in July of this year. We had family camp at Diamond Lake, OR, with family members joining us from Texas, Chicago, Missouri, Arizona, and Washington. Campfires, S’mores, laughing, fishing, boating, swimming, biking, and hiking, but most of all just visiting. To top it all off, we got to spend time with all 12 of our grandkids! Wonderful memories.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 2:48 pm

      Wow, you’re family is really spread out. What a joy to bring everyone together. Sounds like a wonderful time!

  36. Lucy Reynolds says

    September 1, 2016 at 2:24 pm

    Congratulations on your Carol Award. My favorite weekend this year has been any that I shared with my hubby and family. We haven’t done anything special, but I count it all joy for what I do have.

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 2:49 pm

      I hear you, Lucy. Sometimes just doing NOTHING but sit in my recliner next to my husband in his and watch some cheesy television show while I cross-stitch and he plays on his computer can be a little slice of peaceful heaven.

  37. Winnie Thomas says

    September 1, 2016 at 3:05 pm

    Karen, I’m so glad you enjoyed your time at the conference. I’ve seen so many wonderful posts and pictures about it. I’m really hoping to go to the Readers Retreat next year (providing we can talk Carrie, Bonnie, and Annie into doing it again). Congrats on your award! I’m sorry to say I haven’t read any of your books yet, but I’ve heard so many great things about them that they are going on my TBR list.

    A few years ago my husband and I, along with my daughter and her husband, were able to spend a couple of weeks in England and Scotland. We had such a fantastic time. My daughter had spent 18 months there about 20 years ago and had kept in touch with many people. They all invited us to stay with them, so we were gone 17 days and didn’t pay for any hotel rooms! The added bonus was that we got to see how the people really live there in there everyday lives. There are so many amazing, wonderful people all over the world!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 3:30 pm

      What a fabulous experience! That sounds wonderful, Winnie. I always love having a local show me the sites. They usually have so much knowledge that you could never get out of a tour book.

      I do hope they do another reader event. I would go for sure!

  38. Joan Arning says

    September 1, 2016 at 3:46 pm

    I’ve also spent a weekend in Nashville with my daughter, son-in-law and 3 grandchildren!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 1, 2016 at 3:57 pm

      Cool! I wish I had had more time to actually see the city. I’m usually so focused on the conference that I rarely leave the hotel. This time I got away once for a publisher dinner, but that was it.

  39. Linda D. McFarland says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:27 pm

    Family lives too far away for a weekend visit, so my favorite on the weekends is vegging out watching old westerns. Thanks for the opportunity to win!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 2, 2016 at 7:10 am

      Ooo – we need to spend a weekend together sometime, Linda. 🙂 That sounds so relaxing and fun.

  40. Annie JC says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:29 pm

    Karen!!!! I’m so thrilled to have MET, HUGGED, TALKED and whatever we “stalkers” love to do! hahah. Thank you for giving us and CFRR a nice shout-out! As you can tell by my stash of your books, I’m a HUGE fan, and was ecstatic when they called your name! I Love A Worthy Pursuit!!! (Needless to say, no need to enter me, as I already have a copy.)

    We would LOVE to have you join us at CFRR next year. Currently, we are taking a break from planning mode to focus on thanksgivings and prayers. Once we start planning, you’re DEFINITELY on our list! I just LOVE that picture up there! *wink wink

    • Annie JC says

      September 1, 2016 at 7:32 pm

      CONGRATULATIONS!!! =) Such a pretty award too!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 2, 2016 at 7:14 am

      Annie – You made my day! The first day at conference is always a little awkward as we work to get acclimated, but finding you and Carrie and Nancy in the lobby so full of excitement and enthusiasm lifted my spirits and infused me with energy right from the get go! Loved it!

      Yes, please keep me on your list for next year’s CFRR. If you need my personal email it is kwitemeyer[at]hotmail[dot]com.

      • Annie JC @JustCommonly says

        September 2, 2016 at 7:22 pm

        Yay! Thanks!

  41. Nancy M says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:51 pm

    I was beyond thrilled to meet you in person. After a lot of messages back and forth to each other through the years! So glad I was lurking on the lobby and Carrie saw you! And love the pic with you! I made your blog! I might had fangirled all over again! Of course I have and have read all your books! No need to enter me! Yay again for the Carol award! And for spending time with your hubby in Nashville! Precious memories to get some time together as parents I know! We have to sneak away every now and again!

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 2, 2016 at 7:17 am

      Thanks, Nancy. Your fangirl smile lit up my day! 🙂

      Yes, finding time away from the kids is tricky, though it’s starting to get easier now that we have one in college and two in high school. Wes and I actually spent an extra two days touring waterfalls in Georgia before heading home. He knows I love waterfalls and planned out our whole itinerary scoring big romance points. 🙂 I’ll be blogging about that portion of the trip in a couple weeks.

      So glad you found time to sneak away, too. Loved seeing you!

  42. Melony Teague says

    September 2, 2016 at 6:20 am

    Congrats on your award! I watched the livstream. So exciting!

    I was at the Christian Fiction Reader’s Retreat in Nashville , as the only non-fiction author. It wad a joy to participate and hrkp lead yhe worship. Unfortunately I could not stay to er…. stalk in the lobby. (LOL, Which is better? Lurk or stalk?)
    I arrived in Nashville on Tuesday and we toured the Belle Meade plantation. Had a lovely dinner out with fellow bloggers and authors. The readers retreat was wonderful and Lord willing, I hope to be there next year, and meet you in person too. On Thursday morning I flew back to Toronto , Canada with a full heart. GOD IS SO GOOD !

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 2, 2016 at 7:19 am

      That sounds like a great trip, Melony. All the way from Canada??? Wow. I’m impressed. The tour of the Belle Mead plantation sounds wonderful. I’ve never been. I love historical stuff like that, so one of these days I’m going to have to go back and do that.

      I’ll be looking for you next year for sure!

      • Melony Teague says

        September 2, 2016 at 8:59 am

        Yes, all that way, wish I could have stayed longer! See you next year!

  43. Melony Teague says

    September 2, 2016 at 6:21 am

    Gosh, look at those typos! Auto correct and lack of coffee unite. 🙂

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 2, 2016 at 7:19 am

      I can relate. 😉

  44. Paige says

    September 2, 2016 at 7:58 am

    Congratulation, Karen! I’ve got to say you are probably my favorite (right after Janette Oke, of course) historical romance writers. I hope one day I’m able to craft novels half as page-turning as yours. You certainly deserve that award!

    One of my favorite weekends was spending my sixteenth birthday at St. Augustine, FL. I used to spend a lot of time there, but my birthday is right at Halloween so that was super special. All the history tinged with extra spooky and lots of costumes. It was a magical time. 🙂

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:28 am

      Thanks so much, Paige. What a huge compliment.

      And you weekend sounds so fun! Costumes, history, Florida – Sounds magical indeed!

  45. Brandi Gabriel says

    September 2, 2016 at 9:34 am

    It was WONDERFUL to be able to finally meet you, Karen! And thanks for including one of us! *happy reader sigh*

    • Karen Witemeyer says

      September 2, 2016 at 9:53 am

      Loved seeing you, Brandi. And how could I not include your picture when you mom did such a great job? Seriously, that was the best photo of the weekend for me. Strange how a real camera does a better job than a phone. 😉

  46. Karen Witemeyer says

    September 2, 2016 at 9:54 am

    OK – I’ve chosen our winners. Congratulations to . . .

    Megan Potter & Linda Hutchins.

    Yay! I’ll be contacting you ladies via email with instructions on how to claim your prize.

    I had so much fun reading everyone’s best weekend stories. I have some new items added to my bucket list. 🙂

  47. Melanie Backus says

    September 3, 2016 at 7:26 am

    I am so glad you had such a great time! An unforgettable weekend for sure was when My daughter and I attended Pulpwood Queens weekend in East Texas. Book clubs come together from all over and authors speak about their books. One leaves with a load of books and what could be better!

  48. carylkane says

    September 4, 2016 at 2:51 pm

    Karen, congratulations on your award! Thank you for sharing these awesome pictures from the ACFW Conference.

    My favorite weekend includes one in which I spend time with my heart sister. She also enjoys reading Christian fiction, so I share my books with her.

  49. Nancy Brown says

    October 2, 2016 at 9:08 pm

    Congratulations on your award! One of my favorite weekends was spending it in Charleston, South Carolina, with my husband who was there on business. I took the city bus downtown, then took a narrated tour on an air-conditioned bus of the city, which was fascinating. Then, being a knitter, we visited a local yarn shop, which was in a quaint section built or preserved to reflect old Southern style.

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