One short day in the Emerald City…
Well, its more like three, long, arduous days actually. It is that time of year. The Emerald City Writers Conference is here again, and as I look back at the past year, I can’t believe how much I have grown as a writer. A published writer, not so much. But as far as craft is considered, I have gone from simple to sophisticated and complex. At least, I think so.
My goals are pretty much the same as they were last year, only this time I can sense that the stakes are higher. I’m pitching my superheroes. This is the book that I can feel down to my marrow could be big. I just need to find someone who is as passionate about it as I am. No easy feat. My query is set and I am determined to project as much positivity as possible, even when the nerves pull at my insides.
Also different is that this year I am on the conference committee. I know, thou shall not committee, but having this position has given me the opportunity to network that I didn’t have before. At this stage in my career, I find that it has been more than worth it. Just like many writers, I am incredibly shy. I can hear the gasps, Anna? Shy? No, that can’t be, but seriously, I am. However, since I will be one of the first faces conference attendees will see when they check-in, I will be the most gracious hostess. Hiding in the background will not be an option. If you see me hiding, poke me with a pencil. This business is all about the connections and I can not pass the opportunity by.
So, okay y’all, my bags are ready, my pages for the Margie Lawson workshop are printed, and I am packing breath mints. Will I sell a book this weekend? No, that’s not the point. What I will do is take another, all important step to publication.
See you there.