Where do I start about last weeks adventures?
Last week was the BYU WIFYR and it was amazing!!!! I meet a bunch of wonderful new friends, scared off a couple of published authors (never hug someone when they aren’t expecting it…but it does make for a fun story), and I decided this is what I really want to do.
Monday through Friday, my critiquing buds and I headed to BYU early each morning (after a delightful breakfast of Mcy-D’s). From 8:30 until 12:30, we sat in separate groups learning from the best authors around.
I got to work with Janette Rallison, author of My Fair Godmother, Just One Wish, and many others (my daughter is in the middle of Just One Wish and has informed me how wickedly awesome it is…every morning, noon, and night. Yes, my friends, it is that good). She is so funny (Both Janette and my daughter). =)
We had a great group of gals (I mean… we were chic lit. Not many guys wanted to venture into our class room, especially since we were laughing so dang hard every ten minutes). They (our group) were a hoot. And the talent in that class was incredible! It was an honor to read their work and have them critique mine. I’m sure one day I will see them published and be able to say, “Yes, I was in a five-day critique group with so and so. We are like this.” * fingers crossed* And they will say, “I don’t think we are as good of friends as you think we are.” (Erin, that one’s for you!) Ah, good times, good times.
From 1:30 – 2 we got to mingle with any agent, editor, or author that was scheduled for the mingle sessions.
Then came the break-out classes ranging from plotting to finding time to write. I learned something from each class I attended. I loved the class taught by Louise Plummer about anxiety. Because…well… I have it. I learned a lot in that class. Oh and that fantastic class by Sharlee Glenn about being a writer anyway. Loved it!
I think the best part about the conference is that people enjoyed what I had written. Plus, I accomplished the goals I made for myself a year ago. Whoo hoo!
Was the traveling, money, and lack of sleep worth it all? All I can say is, if you haven't had a chance to come to this conference, start saving your pennies. It is well worth it!
9 comments:
It was a wonderful time. I'm glad to hear that you had so much fun. Although I don't get the armpit butter thing. I'm guessing this an inside joke with your group?
Your story is so fun! I hope you've made some publishing goals too! Keep in touch.
That really does fantastic. It makes me kind of wish I went even though I don't write for YA. Sometimes it's just nice to hang around other writers who "get" you.
Yes, L.T. even though I wasn't there for the armpit butter thing, it was much talked about in the chic lit group. I believe it will be talked about for many years to come. (I'll fill ya in next critique group) =) (So funny)
Hey Julie!!! Thanks! Of course we will stay in touch. =) You are an excellent writer.
Melanie, I totally agree. There is something about hanging out with other writers that is magical. Even though the conference is geared towards kids and YA, it has information that all genres can benefit from. It was awesome!
I can't wait to find out what happens next in your story. Why did he steal her purse? What is the significance of the art teacher and the paint? (Or was it dye?) Anyway, you definitely got me hooked and I hope to read more. Thanks for being such a fun and inclusive part of our group. Good luck with the writing!
I'm so insanely jealous I'm turning green in my computer chair this moment! ;)
Louis Plummer was my Creative Writing Professor when I was a much younger, quieter English Lit. undergraduate student @ BYU (think: early 90's). She won't remember me but I'll never forget her. In fact, I have my favorite quote from her of all time on my blog...here's the link.
http://thechocolatechipwaffle.blogspot.com/2008/12/normal-0-false-false-false-en-us-x-none.html
Cheers! ;)
Julie, I honestly can't wait to answer all your questions! Last Tuesday my critique group helped me with the ending of my story and we were rolling with laughter! Now if I can just get it finished! =)
Terresa, she was?!?! Lucky. She was amazing! I was so glad to go to her class. It really was one of my favorites. =) I'm coming right now to check out her quote on your blog! Sweet!
armpit butter? that's just gross...
I am glad you had a good time!
Thanks for dropping by, and for crossing your fingers - I appreciate all of those I can get. I'd also accept crossed legs, toes, and eyes...
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