LTUE is the symposium at BYU for fantasy and science fiction writers. It is the only free writers conference sort of thing that I am aware of, and it is awesome. Lots of talented artists and authors come together to teach a little of what they know. I am so excited for Thursday’s main address since James Christensen (the artist) will be speaking and I am so in love with his work. I have several signed, numbered paintings of his in my home, but I’ve never been able to meet him. This will be a real treat for me. Lee Modesitt will also be there on Saturday, which will be fabulous because I haven’t seen the guy since my booksigning in Cedar City. I’m also hoping Kevin Wasden will be there since he is, and always will be, my favorite artist. The only downside to LTUE this year is the fact that Jessica Day George won’t be able to attend. I am sad about this beyond words. The symposium will last three days and is on February 11-13 (it looks like I won’t be missing Valentine’s Day with Mr. Wright this year. It’s about time!)
You can find out more about LTUE and get the schedule for the full symposium here: http://ltue.org/LTUE2010.html
Make sure to star the places on the schedule where I’m speaking–you certainly don’t want to miss those 
Michele Ashman Bell, bless her heart, interviewed me on her blog last week. Michele is one of those amazing, cool people that you cannot help but want to hug. You can learn more about me and the scary methods of my madness at her blogspot here: Michele Rocks
And finally, I decided to give an update on the family service project of book giving. It’s going well. We have 38 books collected so far, but are hoping for at least fifty. The kids have donated all the money from their chores over the last couple of weeks to the cause and it’s been kind of fun to have them personally make sacrifices so they can be truly a part of this. I told them that their normal allowance from chores was going to this and then asked them to think about the kids whose parents are away and serving our country. They didn’t even complain like they normally do about having to do their chores. I should have thought of this years ago!
See ya there!
I’m still so impressed with your book project idea. And how awesome are your kids for going along with this with glad hearts and busy hands? Great kids with Great Parents!
I’m so excited for LTUE! Last year was the first time I went and this year, I just know it will be awesome! I’m so excited to go and to see you teach because let’s face it, you’re a wonderful speaker! (I think often about “where I settle” as a writer and thanks to your awesome speech, I’m happy about where I’ve ended up.)
So glad your service project is going so well, and that it’s proving to be such a positive thing in your home!
I love seeing you at LTUE! I’m really busy this year, but I’m still planning on coming to one of your classes.
Hope you aren’t too heartbroken that James Christensen couldn’t make it.