So, for those who follow me on Twitter you will know I teased you a little, promising some personal news I’m excited about. That was an understatment of somewhat epic proportions given the news I have to share.
I’ve unexpectedly been given the opportunity to attend the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Conference in Indianapolis this September! Can you believe it? I’m struggling to!
The honour and privilege of spending time with a community of people who share the same passion and enthusiasm for literature and faith is quite overwhelming. Getting to meet and hug many of the amazing authors I’ve admired over the years….well, my fellow bloggers and readers will know how I’m feeling about that!
I’m so grateful for this incredible blessing, words can’t begin to explain my appreciation and anticipation. I will be “working” in a sense, interviewing authors for my blog and representing the blogging community. I can’t wait to share some wonderful blog posts about my time away. I hope to represent the wonderful Christian book blogging community well during my time at the conference and am not unaware of the privilege it is to do so.
I covet your prayers as I travel away from my family, negotiate airports, the unknown world of tipping, and say ridiculous things when overwhelmed by the experience – I’m praying the distraction of my accent will mask most of my foot in mouth moments – LOL!
I’ve been strongly reminded of the way I respond to the Lord as I’ve pondered the gift I have been given to attend ACFW, knowing the depth of appreciation I am feeling for this opportunity. How often do I thank Him for the gift of His life with the same gratefulness and emotion that I have greeted this trip of a lifetime? It’s been a very, very good lesson to learn!
More from me on my amazing adventure to come……
July 13, 2013 at 9:39 am
WOW! This is awesome, Rel! Congrats.
May I just say, you’ll be the best representation for this blogging community; I sincerely mean that. Enjoy your trip and as it draws closer, we’ll count on hearing more about it, and I will certainly keep you in my thoughts!
July 14, 2013 at 1:05 am
Rissi » Sweet girl! Thank you – you are part of such an amazing little group of bloggers that mean so much to me. Love your support and encouragement – immensely! Hugs xo
July 13, 2013 at 9:40 am
Rel
This is so wonderful on so many fronts. And so deserving. You give so much to authors and the Christian fiction community. God is good.
Be assured of my prayerful support.
July 14, 2013 at 1:03 am
Ian » Thank you, Ian – I appreciate your prayers and support so much. Here’s to a couple of Aussies who will finally get the chance to meet a world away – LOL!
July 13, 2013 at 10:03 am
I can think of no finer or more deserving person to represent the voice of inspy book blogging at ACFW! You have single handedly done so much for readers and authors over the years. I am positively thrilled for you dear friend and know that you will cherish the memories and experiences. Praying for smooth and safe travels and, of course, an amazing time for you and all. I can’t wait to hear all about your experience. To think that we will be on the same continent for a moment hahaha!
July 14, 2013 at 1:02 am
Lydia » Oh, Lydia, you just made me cry! What a precious friend you are. Thank you for your generous support and encouragement. You bless me! If only we could meet and just talk, and talk, and talk some more! xo
July 13, 2013 at 10:08 am
Wow! That is so awesome, Rel. You will totally have a blast, I’m sure. I hope you enjoy the States. 🙂 Too bad we can’t all go and meet up, wouldn’t THAT be fun??!! Oh my. 😉
July 14, 2013 at 1:01 am
Renee C. » Oh, I know. Can you imagine the chatter if we all got to hang out and talk books and blogging and life?! Would be wonderful 🙂
July 13, 2013 at 10:08 am
Oh, how very exciting! I’m thrilled for you.
July 14, 2013 at 1:00 am
Word Lily » Appreciate you! xo xo
July 13, 2013 at 10:49 am
Fantastic! Know you will have a great time.
July 14, 2013 at 12:59 am
Beckie B. » Thanks so much, Beckie – it is going to be a blast, for sure!
July 13, 2013 at 10:58 am
Oh my word, dear woman. We are right there excited with and for you. THAT right there is good news!!! Congratulations, Rel! And of course! I’m believing God that everything will go well and that you’ll be fabulous! Truly fabulous. I am genuinely thrilled for you, Rel. 🙂 Here’s to a time of fun, laughter and friendship – I have a feeling it’ll be one unforgettable event. Looking forward to hearing more about it! Whooo-hoo.
July 14, 2013 at 12:59 am
Ganise » You are a delight, Ganise – thank you for sharing in my joy so beautifully. It means a LOT xo xo
July 13, 2013 at 11:02 am
see you there!!!
we’ll both be foreigners
July 14, 2013 at 12:58 am
rachel » Otherwise known as “aliens” in some countries’ airports – LOL!
July 13, 2013 at 11:19 am
Yay yay yay! I’m so excited I’ll get to meet you!!
July 14, 2013 at 12:57 am
Melissa Tagg » Squeeee…..me, too!
July 13, 2013 at 1:12 pm
Yay, Rel. What an awesome opportunity. I can’t attend this year, but I’ve been to ACFW before (last time in Indianapolis actually). I’ll keep you in prayer for the traveling.
July 14, 2013 at 12:57 am
Lori Benton » Thank you, Lori – I appreciate that! Must talk to you about getting my hands on your book – hearing many good things 🙂 Sorry I will miss meeting you, though.
July 13, 2013 at 2:15 pm
I will be there, Rel! I am so excited to have the chance to meet you in person! I know my co-author will be thrilled, too! You have just added to my excitement level ACFW always generates in me! We must, must meet up at some point, so be looking our for me and I will for you! CAN”T WAIT!!! By the way, do you get the American version of “Jeopardy” or do you have an Australian version? I ask because a clue on yesterday’s show in the category was Military War Novels was ” ‘The Rough Rider’ by Gilbert Morris!” The contestants were too name the war the novel covered. This was answered with the correct question of “What is the Spanish-American War?” I’m sure the person probably knew from Rough Riders, but it was thrilling to me to see a Christian novel used as a clue on the show. And one with a hero named Aaron Winslow. Yes, Gilbert named him for me. I couldn’t resist adding that last part. Anyway, it will be great to see you in the States soon!
July 14, 2013 at 12:55 am
Aaron McCarver » I’m delighted to hear you will be there, Aaron. Great news on Jeopardy – we don’t have it here but we are aware of it. Love the nod to you, too!
July 13, 2013 at 2:58 pm
YAY! That is such awesome news! See you there. We can help each other translate what on earth everyone else is saying 🙂
July 14, 2013 at 12:54 am
Kara Isaac » Great idea – and laugh at each other’s jokes when everyone else is looking askance – hehe!
July 13, 2013 at 3:25 pm
Congrats Rel…. I know when you are hugging Ronie I will be with you in spirit of love n thanks for all the writers using God’s talent in getting a message across through books.
July 14, 2013 at 12:53 am
Dianne » I’ll be sure to give her an extra big hug from you! Thanks for sharing my joy 🙂
July 13, 2013 at 3:55 pm
This is very exciting. Congratulations!
July 14, 2013 at 12:52 am
Susan F » Thank you, Susan – I’m very excited!
July 13, 2013 at 4:04 pm
Rel, I’m so happy to think of getting to meet you! This will be my first time at ACFW and I’m just so excited to get to meet so many online friends and knowing that you’ll be there is such a special bonus. Praying for safe travels for you and I’m so thankful for how the Lord provided through it all.
July 14, 2013 at 12:52 am
Joanne Bischof » We can be newbies together – lovely to hear you are going. Looking forward to catching up in person 🙂
July 13, 2013 at 4:38 pm
wow that is so exciting Rel. I know at least 2 other Aussies going. It will be exciting hearing how it goes. On tipping ask others what to do. I found that most of the time others would help me out. With meals they say add about 10 -15% but you will find that most meals etc are cheaper than here and you get a lot more food. I also found in many cases as I am not a huge eater a children’s serve or a the smaller serve was better oh and they call there main course an entree which confused me for a bit.
July 14, 2013 at 12:51 am
ausjenny » Great advice, Jen – thank you!
July 13, 2013 at 8:41 pm
Wow Rel, I’m so happy for you 🙂 I’m attending ACFW for the first time this year, too. I hope I’ll have an opportunity to meet you there.
July 14, 2013 at 12:51 am
Narelle Atkins » Excellent, Narelle – we can be the two Aussie girls with the same name, charting new horizons – LOL!
July 13, 2013 at 9:53 pm
YES! We finally get to meet in person! I cannot wait!
July 14, 2013 at 12:49 am
Julie Gwinn » Ditto! Wonderful news, Julie xo
July 14, 2013 at 12:03 am
YAYAYAY! It will be so exciting to get to meet you!!!
July 14, 2013 at 12:47 am
Patricia Bradley » oh, that’s excellent, Patricia – looking forward to it!
July 14, 2013 at 12:05 am
Congratulations! There is something amazing about spending a few days at ACFW. Prepare to be blown away!!
July 14, 2013 at 12:46 am
Jill Kemerer » Thanks Jill – I know it will be unforgettable!
July 14, 2013 at 12:57 am
You bet!!
July 14, 2013 at 12:31 am
Rel, I truly have mixed emotions about this–I’m thrilled that you’ll be at the ACFW conference, and totally bummed that (for the first time in several years) I won’t be. Have a wonderful time, and know that many of us who won’t be able to say “Hi” and deliver a hug or handshake in person are still doing it in spirit.
July 14, 2013 at 12:44 am
Richard Mabry » Hey Doc – sorry to hear that 🙁 I knew that the thrill of going would be tempered now and then by the thought that some of the wonderful people I’ve ‘met’ will not be attending – now I know you are one of those people. Thanks for your very thoughtful words – much appreciated!
July 14, 2013 at 1:04 am
Woohoo! Another blogger will be there! Looking forward to meeting the infamous Rel of Relz Reviewz!
July 14, 2013 at 7:53 pm
Mocha with Linda » Excellent news, Linda – see you there!
July 14, 2013 at 1:05 am
That’s fabulous, Rel, and very well-deserved. You’ll have a blast and I’m so looking forward to meeting you in person.
All the best,
Jen
July 14, 2013 at 7:53 pm
Jen Turano » You are so sweet, Jen – thank you. See you in September!
July 14, 2013 at 1:23 am
I am excited to get to see you in September at ACFW!!! I haven’t registered yet–but my name is listed with a couple of roomies on a hotel room, so YES, I’m going! So excited to get to see you! Safe travels!
July 14, 2013 at 7:52 pm
Serena Chase » Register, register, register!!!! Hugs, and see you soon!
July 15, 2013 at 2:47 am
Serena!!!!!!!! I can’t wait to meet you face to face!!!
July 14, 2013 at 1:24 am
Rel, this news affects so many of us who have longed for the opportunity to tell you face-to-face how much we appreciate you!!!!!
July 14, 2013 at 7:51 pm
Cynthia Ruchti » Such a lovely thing to say, Cynthia – thank you xo
July 14, 2013 at 1:32 am
Rel, I’m thrilled at this news! I plan to attend–just booked my flight. 🙂 We’ll have to come up with a plan so we can meet for sure. Can’t wait to give you a hug and tell you in person how much I appreciate you!
Blessings,
Ann
July 14, 2013 at 7:50 pm
Ann Shorey » Definitely, Ann – I’m delighted to hear you will be there, truly delighted xo
July 14, 2013 at 1:38 am
I saw this news on Facebook! How awesome!
July 14, 2013 at 7:49 pm
Jessica » Will you be there, Jessica? I hope so 🙂
July 14, 2013 at 1:57 am
Congratulations! I pray you have safe travels and don’t get delayed in any way. I can imagine how exciting this opportunity is for you.
July 14, 2013 at 7:48 pm
Anne Payne » Appreciate that, Anne – very much!
July 14, 2013 at 2:41 am
How wonderful!! I’m able to go for the first time in a long time, and will look forward to meeting you in person!!
July 14, 2013 at 7:48 pm
Lisa Harris » Oh, yay!!! That will be terrific, Lisa!
July 15, 2013 at 2:48 am
YAYAYAYAYAYAYAY!!!!! Lisa, I can’t wait to see you, friend!
July 14, 2013 at 6:18 am
What OUTSTANDING news, Rel! I’ll be there. Let’s meet!
July 14, 2013 at 7:47 pm
Becky Wade » You bet!! SO looking forward to that xo
July 14, 2013 at 9:32 am
Between Beth Vogt being named mentor of the Year nominee and you going to ACFW my heart is so full to bursting and it just might start running out my eyes. Oh Rel I get to MEET you!! Something I honestly never thought would happen this side of heaven!
July 14, 2013 at 7:47 pm
Casey » Oh, Casey, you are a treasure. I’m thrilled you will be there and we can meet and talk, and talk, and talk 😉 xo xo
July 14, 2013 at 10:57 am
Rel, I am so excited. I hope we cross paths.
July 14, 2013 at 7:46 pm
Lena Nelson Dooley » Thanks Lena 🙂
July 14, 2013 at 11:12 am
Oh Rel, I am sooo sooo sooo excited for you! I have just an inkling of what you will be feeling 😉 If I can offer any advice at all, it’s this: Take in the moment. That is what you will be taking back home with you – the awesome memories of moments shared and connections realised in the time spent at ACFW.
And one that I wish I had followed myself while at the 2009 Christy Awards – take photos with your author friends! I was too awestruck on the night to be aware of the opportunity I was losing in not taking more photos. And you are such a rock star everyone will be clamouring to get their pic taken with you, so go for it, girl!
As for food – portion sizes are enormous! I don’t think I ever finished a meal. And, if you can somehow get the opportunity to eat at the local Cheesecake Factory, make sure you do! The one in Denver was amazing – I wish I’d gone there more than once while I was there! http://locations.thecheesecakefactory.com/in/indianapolis-37.html
If I can think of anything else helpful, I’ll let you know 😉
Blessings!!!
July 14, 2013 at 7:46 pm
Ellie Whyte » All great advice, Ellie, and duly noted…especially cheesecake ;-D Appreciate you!
July 14, 2013 at 2:08 pm
Well, add my name to the long list of people who can’t wait to meet you! How exciting! I know you’ll have a wonderful time.
July 14, 2013 at 7:44 pm
Sarah Sundin » Thank you, Sarah ~ how exciting. So glad I’ll get to meet you!
July 17, 2013 at 3:56 am
Rel, I just saw your news! Yay! I’ll be there this year as well. So hope we get a chance to say hi. Your blog is my favorite Christian fiction blog, and it’s always fun to connect with like-minded readers.
July 17, 2013 at 9:00 pm
Sally Bradley » That is so kind of you, Sally – definitely hope we can touch base in Indianapolis 🙂
July 17, 2013 at 7:48 am
That’s awesome!!! Way to go and I know you’ll do an awesome job!!
July 17, 2013 at 8:59 pm
Jamie » Appreciate that, Jamie!
July 19, 2013 at 2:59 am
Rel, so excited to hear this news. I’ll be there too so looking forward to meeting you!
Beth
July 22, 2013 at 9:32 am
Beth Goddard » Yay! Me, too xo
July 22, 2013 at 4:36 am
I’m SO looking forward to meeting you, dear friend–what a thrill. 🙂
July 22, 2013 at 9:30 am
Candace Calvert » CAN. NOT. WAIT. xo xo
July 22, 2013 at 3:24 pm
Where have I been that I am just now seeing this? WOW!!!
You had better pack a whole suitcase of tissues with all the tearful meet – ups you are going to have. 😉
I cannot think of a more faithful advocate for Christian Fiction in the blogosphere blogospherethan you, Rel, and I know that you are reaping a harvest for all the seeds you have sown into the the lives and careers of these authors. Know that I am just ecstatic at your news, and my prayers will be with you as you travel. I know you will cherish every moment.
Blessings to you and yours, my precious friend! *hugs*
July 22, 2013 at 3:27 pm
Uh…not sure where that extra “blogosphere” came from. Whoops! 😉
July 27, 2013 at 9:19 am
Jenny » Oh, my, Jenny – you are so sweet. Your prayers and enthusiasm are so valued. Hugs back xo xo