Retreat!

Last week, I had the amazing opportunity to rub elbows with several multi-published authors, some one-time authors like me, and some aspiring authors. For two days! I left my family (on my wedding anniversary, no less!), and drove up to a state park in TN where were all meeting. We had a lovely meet-and-greet dinner Monday night and then two days of sessions that covered everything from cutting the fluff in our manuscripts, to building worlds, to marketing the finished project. I almost didn't want to come home.
One of the best parts was actually not winning the contest associated with the retreat. The not winning part was a little disappointing, but the feedback on the bits of my story they had read, priceless. So, over the next few weeks, I am going through that manuscript AGAIN and polishing up even more. Then, I AM going to send it to a publisher to see if I can get it in your hands sooner rather than later. I know quite a few of you are waiting impatiently for another book from me. Thanks for believing I can do it.
I came away from this retreat renewed and full of ideas and methods I can hopefully start to use as I continue writing and editing. The people were amazing, and I am glad to say I made several new friends that I am already looking forward to seeing again next year. The classes were helpful. And the view from my hotel room balcony ... well, just see for yourself!