The first week in August I’ll be driving to Canby Conference Center for my third Oregon Christian Writer’s Coaching Conference. I almost didn’t register this year because of the pinch in my pocketbook, but finally gave in to my true feelings—I really want to go! I love being there among writers and publishers and editors. It’s a little bit like going back to college for a few days which I would gladly do if someone paid my way. We begin our day with worship and then attend a writing class each morning. In the afternoons we attend selected workshops on lots of different aspects of the writing life. Also in the afternoons there is the opportunity to meet in 15 minute chunks of time with various writing folk. Have you ever tried to be truly inspiring and marketable in fifteen minutes? It’s scary fun. In the evening there is more worship time and a speaker. And did I mention that we eat a lot too? Three hearty meals mixed in with schmoozing with the people who can make our writing dreams come true. It’s heady stuff.

Each year I’ve learned a lot about the craft of writing and I’ve met wonderful people. I’ve also been able to see the next mountains to climb in my writing career. This year I’m scrambling to get my submissions finished by the deadline. Opening up the critiqued submission packets is very much like receiving your report card. Is it wrong that I love that? I long ago got over receiving those dreaded rejection letters. There are enough acceptance letters sprinkled in to make the process worthwhile and I figure that if I’m not getting rejections I’m not submitting enough material. I love my little writing career and hope to take my next baby steps from August 2nd through 5th.