Monday's Muse~OCCBWW
The workshop was filled with informative lectures and one-on-one consults with an instructor every day. My consults were with Michelle and Pamela. I came away with so much wonderful information that it will take a few weeks to share it all with you. This was not a pitching type of workshop, there was no pitching to be had anywhere. To be honest, the lack of that took an enormous weight off my shoulders. The atmosphere was casual and friendly and allowed me to improve my writing each day.
I found a new friend and mentor in author Pamela Smith Hill during our three consultations together. Her insight and experience has already helped me polish my YA historical fantasy to a shine I didn't know it needed, let alone could achieve. During my two separate consultations with agent Michelle Andelman I learned that though she wasn't the right agent for my work, she was amazingly kind and very giving. I came away with a treasure trove of knowledge from her about everything from the market to agent author relationships. Join me tonight on Twitter for the #WritersRoad chat when we discuss What To Ask An Agent Before Signing, much of which was garnered from my chats with Michelle!
Lovely picture. I miss living on the west coast. A misty morning is preferable to the brutal Texas heat.
ReplyDeleteAnn
Wow, this seems really great. And do you ever have these chats posted later for those of us who can't make them??? Just curious.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read your posts, Heather. I love conferences for the inspiration they bring. And I agree, no pitches make for an enjoying conference. Less pressure that way. :D
ReplyDeleteCozy, so true! Wow, that's quite the swap from the west coast to Texas! You poor thing.
ReplyDeleteChrista, it really was! I used to do a transcript but unfortunately the site I used shut down and I haven't been able to find another. :(
Stina, yeah I was really surprised at the affect no pitching had, loved it!
Heather what a gorgeous picture. I can taste the atmosphere. I'm going to try to be there tonight, and looking forward to learning all your takeaways. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you had a very productive workshop and got some excellent feedback!
ReplyDeleteA no-pitching workshop sounds like HEAVEN. I love that moody Oregon coast--great for writers of mysterious and mystical things. (But it sure is nice to get back to sunshine later!) Can't wait to hear more about what you learned from those wonderful new contacts!
ReplyDeleteSounds fabulous! I'm so glad it was a good trip. I would love to participate in that chat! Maybe I can juggle Potterchat and Writersroad? LOL It could make for good comic relief anyhow!
ReplyDeleteGlad that you had a great time and a chance to work on your writing. Sometimes it is nice to have the conference without pitching, because as you mentioned, it takes the pressure off.
ReplyDeleteKarlene, it was a gorgeous place! No worries if you can't make it, I completely understand.
ReplyDeleteKaren, I really did!
Linda, it was! Moody, I like that. That's a great description of the Oregon coast.
Oh yes!! I love conferences too! And I love when you tell us what happened in one that you attended! Thanks! <3
ReplyDeleteLisa, drop in if you get a chance. We can always use comic relief!
ReplyDeleteTina, exactly! It was nice to just work on my writing.
Monica, we'll have to attend one together sometime. We would have a blast!
That's great, Heather. I'll try to stop by Twitter and catch your posts!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you found something right away that can help your book. Good luck with the additions!
ReplyDeleteerica
Sounds great. And yes, not pitching would take enormous pressure off!
ReplyDeleteWow, sounds like you got a treasure trove indeed!
ReplyDeleteBeeeea-Utiful! I find the "dreariness" absolutely lovely ( :
ReplyDeleteJennifer, excellent, we'd love to have you!
ReplyDeleteErica, me too! And thank you so much!
Laura, it really does.
Lydia, I did! I'm so happy I went.
ReplyDeleteJulie, it does make for perfect writing weather. :)
Someday I want to attend that conferenc. I'm glad you met with agents whose advice you valued and helped your writing! No pitching=No stressing Speaking of pitches, thanks for helping me on mine (again)! More specific details added (I think).... :0) christy
ReplyDeleteI envy you the conferences you get to go to, Heather. No pitching means you actually get to listen with the stress static in your head, right? Roland
ReplyDeleteChristy, you'd love it! You're very welcome, I'm glad I could help. :)
ReplyDeleteRoland, I wish you could go too! You hit on it exactly, it frees your mind to listen and absorb.
It's true, the weather in the Northwest can be very disappointing, even this time of year!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you had a lovely time. And I'm glad there was no pitching so you could just relax and absorb everything.