I’m taking a few moments between sessions at the Oregon Christian Writers Conference to type some of my early impressions and thoughts.

I’ve had a great time meeting and learning from people like Steven James, award-winning author of Story Trumps Structure, Thomas Umstattd, host of several popular podcasts including, Novel Marketing and the Christian Publishing Show, and Brian Bird, writer, and producer of shows like The Case for Christ, When Calls the Heart, and Touched by an Angel.

As I mentioned, meeting, hearing, and networking with these people is great. I often learn new things or find doors opening for new projects with them. However, I’ve found that some of the finest moments are with other attendees, people like me.

On my first morning at the conference as I entered the bookstore a young lady walked over to me.

“Are you Kyle Pratt,” she asked.

“Yes,” I said, a bit tentatively.

She smiled. “I’m Kelsey. I read your blogposts about the OCW conference and sent you an email asking if it would be worthwhile for me to attend.”

As Kelsey spoke I recalled her email and that I told her the OCW conference was both useful and friendly and that I had learned a great deal from it over the years. I went on to say that if she did attend she should look me up and introduce herself.

I’m glad she did.

I always find it hard to pack my bags and head off to a conference. I love my family and the small farm where I live but; I always have new friends and new ideas when it’s over. So, as I turn back towards home, I’m always glad I went.

Also, if you’ve ever been to the Oregon Christian Writers (OCW) conference. press the red button below and let me know about your experience.

Click on the following links to read my author bio, or read more about current writing projects.