ANWA Writer's Conference-Phoenix, Arizona

I've been attending this conference for the last 7 years. I keep going back because I've helped on the committee, learned from so many amazing teachers, and made wonderful friends among this community. (American Night Writers Association-ANWA)

It usually starts with an 11+ hour drive from Northern Utah, with missed exits (you'd think we'd learned by now) and stops along the way.

At least once while we're there we eat pizza and Mexican food. (Chimichangas are a favorite! Macayo's is also a favorite-especially growing up in Arizona.)

But meeting new people, catching up with friends, and learning writing craft and marketing is the best.

My Wonderful Critique Group with Mentor/Author Darci Cole.

Also with: Jami, Doralee, Wendy, and Skye.

Critique is where growth happens.

Keynote Speaker: Charlie Holmberg

She was amazing, kind, and funny! She shared a great message about success and how we measure success is different for everyone.

"We're not in a race."

"Never give something you can't control, power (control) over you."

"Goals are for what we can control."