Instead of Moping

I moved in lieu of going to the ACFW Conference (American Christian Fiction Writers) this year. Word of advice...if you're ever faced with that same choice, run--don't walk--to the conference! So here I sit, unpacking box after box in search of my toothbrush, happy with the new house but wishing I could've somehow made it to Dallas. I'm sure I'm not the only one at home without a date on Saturday night, which got me to thinking about...

Things To Do When You're Not at the Conference

• Brainstorm a new story idea. Who knows...maybe you'll get to pitch it next year.
• Polish up the manuscript you're currently working on. If you're engrossed in your story, you won't have time to think about all the fun you're missing at the conference.
• Call up a writer buddy who didn't get to go either and practice pitching to each other just for the heck of it.
• Splurge on a new craft book. My top 3 suggestions? Plot vs Character by Jeff Gerke, The Plot Whisperer by Martha Alderman, Goal, Motivation and Conflict by Debra Dixon.
• Watch the live blog post in real time of the Gala Awards Ceremony here. 
• Eat chocolate. Heck. Even if you're going to the conference, this is a good idea.