On Fridays I like to pause for a few moments with Susanne and friends
to reflect on some of the blessings of the week.
Usually for Friday’s Fave Five, I make a list of at least five things I am thankful for from the previous week. I’m going to do something a little different this week, though.
One of my faves is that I attended an online writer’s conference this week! The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer’s Conference was supposed to be in May, but was postponed to November due to the pandemic. Since the virus still had not abated, they could not take as many people due to social-distancing recommendations. And some couldn’t come anyway due to travel restrictions. So they had a virtual option this year.
The conference started Sunday night. Then Monday through Wednesday, we had two online morning sessions, two afternoon sessions (75 minutes each), and one each evening (an hour and a half). Thursday morning we had two, then the conference ended at lunchtime.
One other favorite is that I had a manuscript critique via Zoom through the conference with a woman who owns a publishing house with her husband. I appreciated her expertise. I thought she was very balanced: she pointed out some mistakes and practices I need to work on but also what she thought were good features.
I got tons of good information and inspiration from the sessions this week. But as I write this on Thursday afternoon, my brain is fried! And since this was the primary focus of the week, I don’t have much else to share—unless I think of something between now and in the morning.
Just a few more thoughts about the conference: one thing you miss by not being there personally is the networking with others. A couple of ladies set up Zoom meetings for about ten people at a time, apparently with great success. I didn’t join in because they often took place when I was spending time with the family. Maybe, if they do it this way again, I’ll try to get in on at least one or two.
Also, when you go to a conference, it’s exhausting, but it’s also a break from routine. At home, you still have your everyday responsibilities. I didn’t do much besides meals, dishes, and laundry. But I wished I had planned some super-easy meals for this week. We did have frozen pizza one night, so that helped (and that’s my third fave!)
I am inspired but tired! So I’ll leave my faves there for now.
Hope you’ve had a good week as well!
Stray Thoughts 
I think one of the gifts of this crazy season is the opportunity to attend things, like conference, virtually. I appreciate hearing about your experience.
I’m so glad you got to “attend”! I still remember the high of going to a writers’ conference (I went in 2011). Yes, the networking is a big plus. I was so motivated to write and look for opportunities!!! Wishing you all the best.
That’s wonderful that you got to “attend” the writers conference and get some fresh perspective and input.
Yes conferences can be exhausting but they are also really informative. I have one virtual one to attend next month so n the use of puppets for my play therapy sessions with the students i have in my language group. It looks super interesting!! They’re going to incorporate social emotional skills tips to help us guide our special preschoolers through the trauma of the pandemic and the family dynamics that might have changed because of it. I’m excited!!
I hope you have a very restful weekend.
I enjoyed hearing about your conference experience. It’s so motivating to be with others who enjoy the same things.
You might notice that sometimes my faves are different–that’s ok. I am glad you were able to just focus on the writing conference even though it was virtual. And it’s good that you learned so much!
I hope you have a safe and healthy week ahead. And happy writing to you!
What a blessing that you were able to attend virtually! As much as I tire of zoom this and zoom that, it is a wonderful option to continue connecting with other people about things we love. Glad you were able to get some good critique on your writing as well.
Oh, the conference sounds fabulous! I will have to follow along for future attendance. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
That’s nice that we have the possibility to attempt video conferences, or talk to family and friends at least virtually ! We are still under lockdown n° 2 ! Boring ! Shops and restaurants closed the only thing you can do is walk outside !
Oh, those are great faves! I’m glad they were able to make it still work and that you got a useful critique in as well. I know what you mean about quick meals — a few easy thing are helpful when eating out isn’t an option! One thing that might be possible for you. At my local Trader Joe’s, they have a kit with frozen chicken with some vegetables and (most importantly!) seasoning mixes for king pao chicken. I grab that and a bag of frozen veggies (carrots, cauliflower, broccoli) to add to the kit and make rice on the side.