For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Eternal, “plans for peace, not evil, to give you a future and hope—never forget that. At that time, you will call out for Me, and I will hear. You will pray, and I will listen. You will look for Me intently, and you will find Me. Yes, I will be found by you,” says the Eternal, “and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations where you’ve been scattered—all the places where I have driven you. I will bring you back to the land that is your rightful home.” Jeremiah 29:11-14 (VOICE)
I had an amazing opportunity to attend the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference in North Carolina this past week with my friend, Helen Smrcek. Our journey began at 4:30 a.m. as we started the 13+ hour trek through Ontario, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, and finally into North Carolina. Yes, it was long, but the scenery took our breath away (and I couldn’t ask for better company!). The various shades of green, colorful lupins and poppies, rolling hills, and spectacular sunset when we reached the Blue Ridge Mountains made me revel in God’s creation. What a way to start a powerful week!
The conference consisted of reuniting with friends, making new ones, great classes, yummy lavender white mocha iced lattes (too many), compelling keynote speakers, and powerful worship. It was my first time at BRMCWC and I fell in love with the atmosphere, people, and setting.
I took classes from Lynette Eason (Red Pen Alliance – Fiction Writing Practicum), Edie Melson (Social Media, Bullet Journaling, and Soul Care for Writers), and CS Lakin (4 Essential Pillars of Novel Structure). All wonderful learning opportunities. My conference ended by being blessed with an award for my female Mountie manuscript, Stolen Vows. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.
Most of all, I was reminded by both DiAnn Mills and Edie Melson the reason we write. DiAnn urged us to “glorify God in our writing with words from Him.”
What were your favorite moments at Blue Ridge? Where do you find rest?
This song hit me during worship time at the conference. Yes, I want to see you, Lord!
Open Up the Heavens
Check out these other pictures from the conference!
Darlene and Helen at the Awards Ceremony
Darlene with Shannon Moore Redmon and Hope Welborn
Darlene and Dana R. Lynn
Darlene and Lynn Blackburn
Darlene and Lynette Eason
Darlene with the amazing DiAnn Mills and Edie Melson
My mentor and sweet friend, DiAnn Mills
I love this so much! Sending time with you and Helen was one of my highlights, for SURE!
Awww….thanks so much, Edie! It was great seeing you again and learning from you. I’ve ordered my bullet journaling supplies and can’t wait to get started!! 🙂
Darlene, what a treat. It was truly an amazing time. Thanks for being a great co-pilot! The conference was inspiring and encouraging.
I had so much fun sharing this experience with you, Helen! Thanks again for driving. You rock.
Darlene, thank you so much for sharing all the testimonies and pictures. I was not able to attend this year but your post has sure created a hunger for me to be there next year.
Hi, Joanna! It was my first time at this conference and I loved it. Definitely an encouraging atmosphere. Thanks for stopping by!
Such a great time! And I hope you’ve started your bullet journal. I have and I’m loving it! Thanks to Edie for teaching it.
Hi Ane! Yes, it was a great time. I just got my journals in the mail today! Yay! Enjoy your journaling. Thanks for stopping by!
Congratulations on this achievement you have earned this recognition and honour. Your dedication to doing your utmost all the time is evident along with your commitment and trust in Him.
Thanks so much, Heather. I appreciate all your encouragement and support throughout my journey. xo