I was pleased to take part in the Emerald City Writers’ Conference hosted by The Greater Seattle Romance Writers of America in Bellevue, Washington (Oct 9-11).
This year’s conference was extra special because it was their 20th anniversary and the various committees worked hard to ensure that 250 writers as well as agents and editors had a worthwhile experience. Congratulations to all those volunteered.
At the beginning of my trip I was wondering if lady-luck was traveling with me. About 4 years ago, on my first trip to Emerald City, I chose to go by float-plane. However, it was too foggy, the plane was delayed and I arrived five and a half hours late on the first day.
This time, the 7:00 a.m. ferry had a fire. I couldn’t believe it. I had switched to the ferry because I thought it would be more reliable. And certainly, most times they are on schedule and predictable.
Thankfully, no one was hurt in the fire and we drove onto the 8:00 a.m. ferry which slid into the time slot. As we drove on, I knew we were escaping a chaotic travel weekend -a three day holiday, The Royal Victoria Marathon, Thanksgiving, etc Wow!
A big thrill for me was meeting three YA authors – Heather Davis, Serena Robar and Donna Mishra and attending their workshop. They shared great tips and were very encouraging.
The highlight of the weekend was my Second Place Finish in the Emerald City Contest with my YA entry Almost Perfect. All YA entries were submitted in the Novel with Strong Romantic Elements Category. Entering in this category was nerve-wracking and I’m very pleased with the results.
Next year’s dates are Oct 1-3. If you’ve never had a chance to attend before, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Thanks also to Sharron, Lee, Susan, Jackie and Bonnie for your support!
The weekend was filled with writing strategies. My head is crammed with new approaches and ideas.
Canadian author Claire Cross/Clare Delacroix, (she has written over forty romance novels) shared the following tip: I’m responsible for my own luck, by taking the initiative.
So, over the next few months I will embrace that tid-bit. I will be an active protagonist in my own career.
Congratulations on your placement, Jodie! That’s awesome. Wish I could have been there to offer my support in person.
Many congratulations! Love the quote about being responsible for your own luck (etc)…..will be posting that on my desk!
Wonderful conference! As your travelling and writing buddy, I must say
thank you for YOUR support when I was feeling a little green.
Your second place is deserved. Next year it’ll will be a win, I’m sure. I’m hearing so much more about people interested in writing YA, there might be a separate category for it.
I hope you share the process of writing your next book, King of Wands, online. It is so helpful when you realise that you are not completely alone in the writing struggle.
Nice to get away. Too bad we didn’t do the spa thing this time.
sharron
Jodie Esch – great name for a protagonist!
Do you think she’s faced enough obstacles in her writing adventure? I think it’s time to up the stakes and make her deal with publication.
Congratulations on your 2nd Place finish! It sounds like your novel was compared to many different genres as opposed to only Young Adult. What a challenge! I can’t wait for you to get published so Abby can experience Nana’s work!
Congratulations again, Jodie! I’m so pleased I was there to cheer for you and celebrate afterward. Speaking of celebrations, I posted a photo of you and Sharron on my blog, The Writer Side of Life. Cheers!
Congratulations Mama…I’m proud of you!!!!