World Fantasy Was Awesome!

I had a great, great time at the World Fantasy Convention in Columbus.

First, I ran into some writing friends. I've found that conventions are so much more enjoyable when you've been developing a network of peers and associates with whom you can spend time discussing the industry, catching up, and generally instilling confidence in your work. It also helps when those people help clue you in through networking to other professionals you ought to know. That worked fabulously. Thanks to Stephen Nelson, especially.

Second, I pitched to a number of agents and editors and have a total of 9 requests from the conference. I know it's pie in the sky still, but they were all friendly, generous with their time, and polite enough to open the door to opportunity. I hope it is fruitful for all of us.

Third, it was informative regarding the industry. Writers, editors, agents, and publishers are interesting people with interesting ideas, stories, concepts, and energy. You spend enough time around them at a convention and you practically explode with creativity. For me, it was rejuvenating as well as exciting for possibilities and for making new contacts. Well worth the trip.

OK, should have posted this a week ago, but following the convention I was on vacation visiting friends, family, and traveling a great deal with my own little family of six. Yes, very busy times! Now, on to polishing that middle grade for submission. Thank you editors and agents for providing the incentive!

Tomorrow I'm off to the World Fantasy Convention

Ecuador was an amazing, life-changing experience. I met people so humble of circumstance it was hard to believe. Many wondered how they were going to feed themselves and their children each day, a literal struggle for survival. Others were more well to do. But in each case, they were humble in heart, and humble seekers of goodness and the Spirit in their lives. They were good and faithful. But I'll write more about that elsewhere.

Tomorrow I join my family in Ohio. They'll be visiting friends and having many Halloween festivities while I attend the World Fantasy Convention. It's one of the largest professional writing conventions in the world. Many editors and agents are going to be there, as well as a thousand authors. Excelllent!

Have any of you been to a writing convention? How about World Fantasy? If you haven't, you should seriously consider it. One of the best means of improving your craft, making new friends, and building your career.

Tell me about your experiences.

Off to Ecuador

Well, I'm off to Ecuador! Travel all day today through Atlanta to Guayaquil. Tomorrow, off to the Galapagos Islands. Would you believe there is a branch there? Wow, and some amazing people to interview and share their stories. Plus some amazing photo ops. Look for some coming articles.

Guess who I ran into at the airport? Brandon Sanderson! On his way to St. Louis for a book tour. He's gone two weeks as well.

OK, folks, the plane is boarding. I'll write again if I can.

Ecuador

So, I'm leaving for Ecuador tomorrow. 2 Week trip. Really looking forward to the interviews I'll make and the people I'll meet and the beautiful country. But I'm starting to feel anxious about being gone so long and wondering if I've left anything unfinished that shouldn't be left unfinished???