We Love Jane Austen

This last weekend was JAFFCON. It is a gathering of writers and readers in our awesome genre who share our love for Jane Austen. This year we were in Las Vegas. And no, we didn’t go there to party in a casino. As a matter of fact, we didn’t go near a casino. It was in Las Vegas because it is where our fabulous Jessica Washer lives, and she was the powerhouse to put the event last year and this. The group was originally JAFF Writers and Reader Get Together, the brainchild of Victoria Kincaid and Summer Hanford, which began in 2019. It has been done on Zoom and in person.

During our meeting, we have many speakers who speak on different topics. Last year, I became friends with 2 of our over the top male narrators, Jeff Bigler and Benjamin Fife. Benjamin is the voice of my stories now. No offense to Jeff, as he is also top notch. Benny was first to ask me to do the audio for my future books.

Involved in the event include many well known in our JAFF community. Jessica writes under Leigh Dryer. MK Stratton, Summer Hansford, Victoria Kincaid, Don Jacobson, Melanie Rachel, Sarah Courtney, Jeff Bigler, Benjamin Fife, Timothy Underwood, Barry Richman, and many, many more. We also learned from those who do podcasts, blogging, promoters, and more. One of the sessions we had was male authors in what many would believe to be “chick” genre. It is interesting to see the take on the gentlemen side.

It is so much fun to meet people you have known on social media, and make new friends. With the readers being there, we are able to learn from their view, what they like and don’t like (important issues, including is Colonel Fitzwilliam’s given name Richard). The activities were filled with good laughs, food, and fun. We had a JAFF world version of Jeopardy (OMG, laughter was over the top), a tea (in costumes), dancing lesson (fortunately, my walker allowed me to sit that one out, or I would have been on the ground). There were works in progress (WIP) stories reading.  Saturday evening we went to a really nice restaurant (not in costumes, thankfully). Throughout the weekend, if you went hungry, it was your own fault (Jessica is the ultimate at seeing to the needs of everyone.

There was lots of JAFF talk, and a lot of talk between all who were there, getting to know people behind their stories. Friday night, the hot tub was extremely enjoyed (especially by MK Stratton and myself, who have health issues and had driven to Vegas for the event).

One thing I love about the community is the way many of us are of the same mind, making our community and beyond a better place through our tributes to A Lady who is the reason for our gathering. When the chips are down, we all come together to aid our world during such times. It is incredible to be with some of the people who are top in our genre. And this year we were fortunate to have the youngest author read from her WIP, the wonderfully talented (11 year old) Tallulah Fife (daughter of Benny). She is an absolute treasure and I for one look forward to read her story when she finishes it and any future works.

Even though we were in person, we also had the online event going on at the same time, thanks to Summer and Victoria. And yes, Summer, you got your teacup earrings. Last year I made teapot earrings, and they joked that they needed teacup ones this year, so that is what they got. Now I have to figure out what to do for next year.

So, check it out on Facebook, JAFFCON, to see photos and videos of all of the fun. Keep in touch for next year’s information so that you might be a part of it if you can.

Happy November, and I hope you all find something for which you can be grateful. Right now, I am extremely grateful to have so many wonderful people in my life, including all of you. And a HUGE thanks to our dear lady, Jane Austen, for what she has brought to my life. Without her fabulous characters in her timeless stories, where would we be?