2008 Faith and Fiction Retreat Photo Album
Some of the photos on my camera came out darker than I would have liked. So, I had to play with brightness and contrast for some of them. Anyway, this should give you a pretty good idea of the sessions. The Palms of Destin resort was absolutely gorgeous and definitely was a “treat.”
added 8/23/2008 – After the photos scroll down for my recap! The first part is about my adventuresome Thursday afternoon.
DELAYS
Okay, I’m supposed to be taking a nap. But I just ate, so laying down is not happening. Everyone else has pretty much talked about their experiences, so here’s my take.
First, I missed out on some of Friday’s events. Not because I was late, but mainly because a “certain airline” (I won’t call names) had delayed flights and on top of that delayed my luggage. When you’re traveling by yourself as it is, the last thing you need is NOT to see your luggage on the baggage carousel. I had a meltdown moment and then realized this was one of those tests that popped-up when you least expect it. I prayed the luggage was indeed just “delayed.”
I’m happy to say, this “certain airline” did deliver my luggage 11:00 pm on Thursday evening – no brownie points – but you are forgiven. I’m not materialistic, but I had a brand new outfit in that bag and I’m NOT a shopper. That’s another whole topic.
Next time, I doing the carry-on bag. For sho! My clothes will travel with me – even if I have to lug them all through the airport. Just have to pack REAL tight.
Enough of my rant.
FAITH AND FICTION RETREAT RECAP (TY)
Friday night. I did get to meet ladies from the famous ACFW-VIP (Atlanta Chapter). I dined with Sherri Lewis, Rhonda McKnight, Dee Stewart and Dwan Abrams at Joe’s Crab Shack. To be a server there, you definitely have to be outgoing and ready to dance like every 10 minutes. Or at least it seemed that way. The food was good!
Faith and Fiction 2008 was absolutely fabulous. I had as much fun this year as last year, maybe more so. Having great roommates help a lot. At one point I didn’t know what happened to my roommate, Patricia Woodside. I will let you read her adventure on her blog. She is a wonderful person, very funny and yes, Patricia I’m looking for you to have a manuscript completed by the end of the year. 2009 is the year for putting these “babies” out there.
For the full itinerary for the retreat, you can visit this page. I went to 3/4 of the Pajama Book Club sessions, but I didn’t purchase the books until I arrived at the retreat. So, I listened to the sessions, but tried to close my ears so I didn’t totally hear how the books ended. 
My favorite sessions were probably:
- Book Discussion – Featuring Michele Andrea Bowen – Book: “Holy Ghost Corner”I loved the depth in which she spoke of developing her characters. Michele also has a great sense of humor. She said she had been influenced by Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, etc. Her books have always reminded me of the “classic literary” books. She’s just eloquent to me.
- Panel Discussion/Booksigning – “Is it or isn’t it? The difference between Inspirational and Christian Fiction”
- This discussion was led by Victoria Christopher Murray, ReShonda Tate Billingsley and Mikasenoja.This discussion set off some nerves! LOL! I’ve been a big fan of Victoria’s from Temptations, but this is the first time I really paid attention to ReShonda’s books. She specifically said when she first came out, she wasn’t writing Christian Fiction – but that’s the route she is taking now. I have her latest book Can I Get a Witness? on my stack of books now. These ladies are so hilarious!
- There was a special session on Saturday afternoon with Victoria and ReShonda. Both of these powerhouse authors spoke very candidly about the publishing industry and their journeys. As an aspiring novelist, this really was the BEST part for me. Very energizing and motivating.
So, like last year – I’m going to say again – MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND NEXT YEAR! LOL! Really, I am a classic introvert and I enjoyed myself. Great conversations and great books!
Thanks for the recap, Ty and the direction. I’m putting this down for my 2009 event list.
Thanks for posting your pictures Ty. I didn’t get very many good ones. They were so dark. I gotta learn how to work that camera. It was great meeting you, too. I can’t believe you’re such a bitty thing. Cookie aisle in deed!
Great recap, Roomie! (although you certainly could have left out a few of those pics of my belly!)
Next year, I’ll have a slimmed down physique as well as a completed manuscript in hand (and another in progress)! Can’t wait to read your cozy!
Hey, these is too cool. Would love to have been there! Next time. Great job!
I am sorry that I missed this event. It sounds as though you all had a great time! I am planning on going to the next one but how do I get the information about it?
Have a Blessed day,
Teleshia
Hey Teleshia,
For more information, you can check out the Faith and Fiction Retreat Website at
http://www.faithandfictionretreat.com
blessings,
Ty
Hey Ty,
2008 Faith and Fiction was a wonderful fun filled time. I really enjoy getting together with like minded people. Women who love God and love to read. I am already making plans for next year. Even my husband (Richmond) had a good time and has aked if he can come again next year.
Enjoy your year see you in July 2009!
Shawn
Rochester, NY
WOW!!! you ladies had a wonderful time. Sorry I had to miss this year. I hope to be in Orlando in 2009.