I recently returned from an adventure that proved to be one of the most entertaining weeks of my life. I'm not talking about a trip to Disney World or a vacation on a cruise ship. I'm talking about the Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop, a special conference held in Dayton, Ohio every two years for aspiring writers. This was my third EBWW conference, and I swear, they just keep getting better every time. The conference offers a multitude of classes on the craft of writing, along with the opportunity to network with other writers, editors and agents. There's also a whole slew of famous keynote speakers to inspire us on our writing journey as well.
As much as I enjoyed helpful classes on topics such as the secrets to getting published in magazines, memoir boot camp, using humor in the dark places, and busting writer's block, to me, one of the most important aspects of the conference was the camaraderie among my writer friends. We booked hotel rooms side by side, ate all of our meals together and brainstormed ideas for books, blogs, and personal essay writing. These people are my tribe, the people who encourage me to keep going when I feel like quitting. Because of them, I'm back to working on my memoir---something I had put off for awhile during a long bout of writer's block.
Rather than go into detail about the incredible energy and excitement I felt at the conference, I'd rather express the experience in a collection of photos taken at the event. Enjoy!
My tribe of amazing friends and writers
Sooooo much laughter.....
Getting an autograph from Rita Davenport, author of Funny Side Up
Honored to be in the company of these wonderful bloggers and authors
Apparently pink and purple hair was all the rage this year at EBWW
One of my besties and a huge reason why I attend the conference---to connect with Linda!
Found my brother from another mother. This is David Henry Sterry of the Book Doctors.
Comedian Jim Hands was crowned King James of EBWW
Two hilarious writers, Parri and Brian, who kept me laughing throughout each meal
You know you're having fun when you stay out so late with fellow writers that you close down the bar.....with the bartender.
This Florida girl got to see SNOW in Dayton! 22 Degrees!
The stand-up comedians who put on a great show. So proud of my friends in this group!
What would a conference be without a "professional" photo at the end of the weekend?
***WANT MORE MENO MAMA? This week I'm featured on THAT'S INAPPROPRIATE with my story on why I'm glad I'm no longer raising toddlers. You can read it here: https://thatsinappropriate.com/10-reasons-why-not-having-toddlers-is-kind-of-awesome/
***WANT MORE MENO MAMA? This week I'm featured on THAT'S INAPPROPRIATE with my story on why I'm glad I'm no longer raising toddlers. You can read it here: https://thatsinappropriate.com/10-reasons-why-not-having-toddlers-is-kind-of-awesome/
Buzz around, see what you think about some of these other blogs by clicking on these links for a peek into their homes:
Baking In A Tornado https://www.BakingInATornado. com
Menopausal Mother http://www.menopausalmom.com/
Never Ever Give Up Hope https://batteredhope.blogspot. com
Spatulas on Parade https://spatulasonparade.blogs pot.com
An amazing time!!! Was that 2 weeks ago already? I miss y'all! Thank you for posting these excellent memories. Bring on 2020!
ReplyDeleteI miss you, too. I want a do-over!!
DeleteThose big huge smiles tell the whole story!
ReplyDeleteSo true----my mouth hurt from smiling so much!
DeleteThe pictures speak a thousand (edited, of course) words. Thanks for the memories, Marcia.
ReplyDeleteMiss you, Anne. We had a great time, didn't we? Time for you and the ladies of #473 to come visit me at the Doyle tiki bar!
DeleteLooks like a great time!
ReplyDeleteIt truly was. Sadly, I have to wait two more years for the next one!
DeleteI've been to two writers conferences in America and I'd love to go to another one but it's not likely to ever happen all the way from South Africa. R is for retirement.
ReplyDeleteYes---that would be a LONG way to travel!
DeleteI am SOOOOOOO jealous :) This looks and sounds awesome and just what you needed, I bet! Happy for you
ReplyDeleteThanks! I loved every minute of it---it soothed my writer's soul.
DeleteThis is so great article .. thankyou very much for this well written informative article ... hope to see more in future.. vex 3 online
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome event with awesome people! Love the photos, Marcia. They say it all. I would love to try this conference. I've only heard rave reviews. Of course, I get wonderful support from peeps like you and other blogging friends via digital world. But to meet up in person would be a dream!
ReplyDeleteIt really is! Many of these writer friends were my online support group---to actually meet them in the flesh was amazing, and we became close friends immediately.
DeleteThat looks like so much fun!
ReplyDeleteIt really was. I miss it already.
DeleteThat sure looks like a wonderful time. So much spirit of laughter and joy! Happy to hear you are back at work on your memoir. I'm sure it will be hilarious and inspiring:)
ReplyDeleteIt will be quite different from the last book......
DeleteMarcia, it sounds like you had a hoot... I have been enjoying your Instagram posts... what did you think of all that snow?... I personally could do without another snowflake in my life but that will not happen in Halifax... lol
ReplyDeleteI have missed you greatly, I am finally back to writing, it took me a long time to get back but it feels good... now I taking my time getting caught up with everyone... have a great week xox
I loved the snow! And I've missed you, too. Going over to check out our latest blog now!
DeleteSounds like a great time was had by all. And I agree, at events like this it is often the interaction with writing/blogging friends that is so motivating. And your pictures convey the warmth and fun.
ReplyDeleteIt really was one of the best weekends of my life.
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