This time last year, I was flying the friendly skies to Dallas, Texas, where the American Christian Fiction Writers annual conference was about to begin. ACFW is the premiere writing organization for Christian fiction. I’ve made many good friends who love Jesus and the written word. I’ve met many of the wonderful authors whose books line my bookshelves. My own writing has grown on the the guidance of veteran writers and my critique partners. Meeting with friends I’ve met through this online group is one of the highlights of my year.

Sadly, I’m not able to attend the conference this year. I’ve done well not dwelling on that fact and even though many of my friends are heading to the Lone Star state, I know God has a reason for me not attending.

I’m excited for the wonderful opportunities awaiting my friends and look forward to hearing the daily news from the conference. They’ve promised to take lots of pictures.

One of the things I’ll miss the most is the booksigning on Saturday. When I budget conference expenses, I add in an extra $100-$200 for books written by my favorite authors. Extreme? Not for a fiction writer honing her craft. I learn so much about characters, conflict, dialogue, etc. by reading novels.

Writers conferences are the most amazing things. You’re surrounded by people who think it’s no big deal to talk to voices in their heads. These people “get” you. These people share your passion for writing.

Sigh.

There’s always next year.