There is a lot for me to celebrate this year. Hi, this is Michelle Sutton, and I’m thrilled to say that I haven’t missed a conference since Denver, 2004, when we were still ACRW. I’ve made it a priority to work hard in this biz and both ACFW and the conferences have helped me get where I am today. I’m also halfway through my second year on the ACFW board and let me tell you something…this organization just keeps getting better and better. Seriously. If you stick around and stay involved you’ll see that and grow with us not only on the inside but hopefully in your writing career.
So what does a board member do their 5th time at a conference? Well, this year I am also coordinating all of the volunteers for conference. This used to be done by Carrie Turansky. I have had quite a few people step forward and ask how they could help. I have a spread sheet in excel that I’ve been filling out as people step forward. I’ll need helpers for setting up, registration, meal ticket takers, introducing workshop presenters, and the bookstore. If any of these actvities interest you, please post a comment or write me a joyfulhutch(at)msn(dot)com and I’ll plug you in somewhere. I also plan to make an announcement on the loop as soon as registration begins. So be thinking about where you can serve. It’s a great way to get to know people.
And about that booksigning. What better way to start out than at the Mall of America, eh? How exciting is that! And my roommate from last year, Sara Mills, also sold her first book. We both have more coming out in the same series, too. We are so giddy it’s unreal. And for us to get to celebrate together. What fun!
Oh, and to break the ice the first year I attended conference, I hosted a chocolate party in my room. All you need in order to get into the party is to bring your own chocolate to share and a heart for fellowship. We’ve had one every year since and it’s become quite an event on Thursday nights. So if you want to attend, I’ll be posting the information on my blog and e-mailing people on Tuesday, the week of conference, in regards to location and time. I hope to see you there.