Wow!  In a word, that’s the best way I can describe the 3^rd Annual Emerald Coast Writers’ Conference held in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, this weekend. Business was flowing, friendships were renewed, and many new ones were formed. The setting along the emerald waters and sugar-white sands of Florida's gulf coast helped set the stage for a terrific writers' weekend. I've been a member of this great group of writers for several years and they continue to "wow" me with their many talents.

After two, full days of seminars and workshops, plenty of food and always great conversations, everyone seemed in high spirits as we gathered late last night for a final “nightcap” in the Oasis Room to bid our farewells.

Feedback from everyone indicated they love these small, intimate conferences where you can really get to know each other. And yet, being small, did not hamper our ability to draw some great talent.

Our keynote speaker, best-selling author, Phillip Margolin, was gracious, entertaining and inspirational. He provided two terrific sessions that gave us a glimpse into the dedication and hard work he puts into his books. He reminded us that this is a business and hard work is required; however, he also showed us the lighter side as well. His message was that there is always time to write, no matter how busy we are, and he encouraged us to be patient with your story ideas as they brew in our mind and on paper. His newest book, Lost Lake, is sure to be the next best seller in his string of hits.

Our own, Vicki Hinze, with more than 26 books to her credit, was one of the top-notch presenters at this conference. Her sessions are always packed. If you ever get a chance to attend her seminars, you’ll be richer for it. She has 6 books coming out this year, so be sure to check them out!

Editors from Hilliard & Harris and  Boyds Mills Press listened to our pitches, as did literary agent Maya Rock from Writers House out of New York. I saw many smiling faces over the course of the two days, indicating some positive things may be brewing for some of the attendees!

The seminars covered everything from the fundamentals of writing novels and short stories, plotting, developing characters, writing effective dialogue, writing sex scenes,. . .  and so much more. There were sessions on screenwriting, writing for the children’s market, how to pace a mystery, how to write query letters, making effective presentations . . .just a wonderful variety of topics to fit everyone’s needs. These sessions were conducted by accomplished, published authors. What a wonderful job they did!

The two seminars I conducted covered topics on understanding and overcoming writer’s block and an introduction to blogging. There was a lot of interest in blogging; and for those of you who expressed interest in it, I hope you will check out those sites I recommended and give it a whirl.

It was a terrific weekend and I now have many new friends to add to my circle. I wish everyone the greatest success and let’s do this again next year!

Now I must go write.

Have a golden week, everyone!