Conferences
The year 2016 was a year of travel for me. I was privileged to be on faculty at many conferences. I appreciate the warmth and kindness of conference staff and volunteers, as well as all the hardworking and generous conference directors. Everywhere I went, I felt welcomed and at home. For me, reconnecting with editors and other publishing professionals is always a conference highlight. I also love meeting and conversing with new and established writers. I could not have asked for a better year for travel.
When I first became a literary agent, I had been a published author for some time but had never attended a conference. Back then, before each conference, I’d look at the faculty roster and think, “Wow, I don’t know anyone!” And I’d feel a little scared. Now I look at the rosters and say, “Good! I’ll get to see my favorite people again!” Such is only one benefit of experience.
One family benefit that came from so much travel is that it gave my husband and our college-aged daughter (commuting to the university from home) a lot of “Daddy-Daughter” time. But after several times of announcing conference plans, my daughter said, “Again? You’re never home!” We all agreed to make 2017 a lighter travel year.
Contests
In 2016, I judged several contests, as I am honored to do every year. This seems like a great time to give a shout-out to all the dedicated and committed contest coordinators. I don’t see much that goes on behind the scenes, but, as with conference directors, I realize that contest coordinators deserve credit for their hard work.
Family
Our blog readers have become aware of my mother’s unexpected and prolonged illness. I cannot express enough how much I treasure the support of our publishing community. She continues to improve, and for that (and everything else good!) I am grateful to the Lord.
The Future
I look to the year 2017 as one of great promise. As always, I am blessed to work with many wonderful and talented authors and top notch editors. I appreciate being a part of The Steve Laube Agency.
My prayer is that in 2017 and beyond, you will find peace and prosperity as you travel on your publishing journey with us.
