CAFE: A gathering place. A place of refreshment.

Thirsty for the latest releases in Christian fiction? Ready for a peek into the world of publishing and writing conferences? Hungry for spiritual and real-life nourishment? Pull up a seat; you're in the right place, and I'm so glad you've stopped by.

Monday, September 17, 2007

Preparing The Way

"Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert."
Isaiah 43:19

This is the theme of this year's ACFW conference in Dallas. Don't you get goosebumps when you think of the One who goes before preparing our paths in ways we can't even imagine?
I've done the preparing on my end. Writing, editing, digging deep into the craft of writing, trying to define my "brand". It is necessary work, one I feel passionate about. Now, it's time to let go and head to Dallas.
Some of the events I look forward to:
  • Hearing the keynote speaker, James Scott Bell
  • Meeting with Susan Meissner for a critique of the pages I sent her
  • Participating in the sessions and workshops
  • Appointments. Editor and agent. And those divine moments that God springs on me.
  • Meeting new people. Making friends.
  • The awards banquet. My critique partner, Myra Johnson, and I are finalists in the Genesis contest, and Vickie McDonough and Margaret Daley from my local WIN group are Book-of-the-Year finalists. Winning is not at the top of my list. I'm already honored just to be in the running.

My heart is full of anticipation. Not about whether I land an agent or shine in some way. Rather, I want to be open to whatever comes. I want to experience the rivers in the desert . . . a new thing.

I'll let you know how it goes, and as soon as I can, I'll post conference pics and give you the highlights.



5 comments:

Myra Johnson said...

I guess we're as ready for conference as we'll ever be! So glad to be sharing the experience with friends like you!

carla stewart said...

Yes! Half the fun is being with friends who "get us." Expect the unexpected. See you in Dallas.

Debbie said...

Glad to meet another writer and coffee fanatic!! :)

I belong to faithwriters.com and they have helped me in my writing development. I have had a few publications in a devotional and look forward to where the Lord will lead my hand.

I will check back to your blog again as it was such an enjoyable experience.

God Bless
deb

Anonymous said...

It was great meeting you in Dallas. I see you've written for Angels on Earth, a Guidposts publication. I had an article published in that magazine October 2006.

carla stewart said...

The Guideposts people are wonderful to work with. Please let me know about your article.

I really enjoyed visiting with you and will post a picture of you on the blog in a day or two. I'm still getting back down to earth.

Thanks for stopping by the blog!