Attendee Spotlight - @Annabanana999

OMG. Look who it is! Say hello to, Annabanana999! 

Hi, I'm Anna (Gillian Aubrey/@Annabanana999).   I'm a SAHM with two sons 6 and 27.  

When I first heard of Twilight, I thought it sounded bizarre but my interest was piqued in December of 2009 when New Moon was out.  I started doing some research and I bought the series and finished them in a week!  I was hooked but wanted more, then I came across fanfiction and the rest is history!  The first fic I read was The Rain Season by Elusivetwilight.

Since discovering the world of Twilight, I've met some wonderful people and have had the privilege of meeting some of the cast and a few behind the scenes folks.  I honestly haven't had so much fun in a very long time!  :)

I'm looking forward to meeting everyone in Las Vegas!

Anna

Anna, your twitter name has gotten some Gwen Stefani stuck in my head. 


*sings* This shit is BANANAS - B A NA NAS!


Sorry. Now it's everyone else's turn. lol 
THANKS FOR SHARING WITH US! Can't wait to meet you in Vegas!


xoxo
TFMU Team 

Attendee Spotlight - @Esbrandofheroin

HOLLA! Esbrandofheroin is up in da TFMU HOUSE!

I'm a party girl through and through. Don't get me wrong I love my family but I'm really looking forward to getting away. I have a four year old boy and 2 year old girl and a really great husband (I'll actually be in Vegas for our 6th anniversary!) but I really want lots of drunk girl time. 

When I'm not a loving mom and super wife I work as a clinician w/foster kids. I love my job too but sooo need the week off (yeah, I took a full week for a 3 day trip.)

I found fanfiction on a twilight blog and they were talking about MotU. But it was too much for me. I had to try the less hardcore stuff first. 

It took a while but I finally became brave enough to post when I found picsperations on the perv pack smut shack blog (thanks Emmy!) 

I read daily but I try to stay away from the big name fics. Don't get me wrong, I've read a lot of it but I prefer fic diving to recs.

I've written several one shots and have two multi-chap stories that I can't seem to finish- Everyone Else and Albertine. Work has taken over the creative part of my brain I think. 

I prefer B&E but I love ah, au, only M rated, drama, fluff, humor, suspense, crime....  I even like the occasional poly and femmeslash. 

I can't wait to meet Sandy @impetuouslamb in person and I so wish there were more chicks I knew coming, but I'm just so happy to be meeting so many new girls who think like me. It's worth all the shit I'm getting from my family. Lol

Nicole (E's My Brand Of Heroin)

Thanks, Nicole! We're really excited to meet you in Vegas, too! Thanks for sharing with us!


xoxo
TFMU Team

Attendee Spotlight - @Themys_

How 'bout a big round of applause for one of our Brazilian Meet Up Attendees, Themys_!!


Hi,

My name is Kelly, Themys_ on Twitter. I'm coming from Brazil. I'm 33, a lawyer and I have a 4 year old son. He's awesome! I've been divorced for 2 years and I want to enjoy my time in Vegas. A LOT. Anyone else want to hit the nightclubs?

I got the Twilight book as a Christmas gift in 2009. Four days later I had already read all four books and after re-reading them, I asked, "What now?" A few minutes online and I discovered fanfiction. First it was brazilian fanfiction. Then I found out the universe that is fanfiction in English. Let me just say that I learned a lot of new words. The kind that you don't learn in English courses.

I went to Comic Con last year and the best part was to meet and get to know all those amazing ladies. I had a wonderful time in San Diego and I'm very excited about Vegas too! 

I work way too much and between work, my son and all the craziness that is my life I had almost no time to stay on twitter or just keep in touch this last year. I really hope I have more time from now on (yeah, that's likely to happen). 

I'm looking forward to meeting y'all and can't wait to see the girls I've met before. See you guys in June!

A little personal note here...I met Themys on twitter when she was searching for a tattoo to commemorate her new beginning after her divorce, and am proud to say I helped her pick out a gorgeous butterfly! I can't wait to meet you in person and see it for myself! :-D Thanks for sending us your spotlight, Kelly! 


xoxo
theswandive

SEND *YOUR* SPOTLIGHT TO TWIFICMEETUP@GMAIL.COM

Attendee Spotlight - @OhMyCarlisle

I'm super duper excited to introduce you to the lovely, OhMyCarlisle!

My name is Amy, but I’m known to most on twitter as @OhMyCarlisle and as FanFiction.net author Esme Mom Cullen.  I’m originally from New Jersey, but currently live in Orange County, Calif. and work in corporate communications for an automotive company.  I’m a huge Disney fan, an all-around fangirl, and forever Team Carlisle and Team Esme.

 
I got hooked on “Twilight” in spring 2009 and from the beginning I was drawn in by Dr. Carlisle Cullen.  I soon became involved with online role play, which led to fan fiction writing. I write Esme/Carlisle canon.  Carlisle is my favorite character in the “Twilight Saga,” but I wanted to know more about this woman who won his heart after centuries alone. Stephenie gave us precious little information on Esme in the books.  She gave us a bit more of Esme’s backstory outside of the novels, but I thought she deserved better and that is what led to “The Esme Chronicles.” 

I’m also working on a multi-chapter AU fic called, “Miracles and Mischief,” in which Esme and Carlisle are granted the one wish that they thought they could never have.  I’ve written multiple one-shots including letters to and from Cullen family members, Esme/Carlisle moments, and one AU Esme/Emmett naughty story.   

As an extension of my fan fiction writing, I run Ask Esme Cullen on tumblr, where Esme answers questions about her life, her family and her husband.  I’m on staff at one of the top fansites dedicated to the “Twilight Saga,” HisGoldenEyes.com, part of the Page to Premiere Network. I also run my own blog, Adventures in Cullenland, and contribute to Ones2Watch4.com.    

I’m looking forward to meeting other authors and readers in Las Vegas. I used to live in Vegas so if you are looking for tips and recommendations give me a shout!

GREAT PICS!! I can't wait to meet you in Vegas and hear about your experiences! And HECK YEAH, we're gonna pick your brain about Sin City! Thanks so much for sharing with us! See you soon!
xoxo
TFMU Team

Attendee Spotlight - @starrett72

WELCOME TO THE SPOTLIGHT CLUB, starrett72! 

Hi, I’m Jennifer Starrett from Austin, TX.  I also go by @starrett72 on Twitter and JenStarrett on FanFiction & Twilighted.

I’m a married mom of 3 boys.  Yes, 3 boys!  I bet you could guess why I need to escape to the world of FanFiction!  I’m originally from Indiana and transplanted down to Austin, TX in 2000.  We absolutely love it here.  I have been everything from a stockbroker/manager, homebuilder, and a stay-at-home mom.  However, my true passion has been cooking (outside of Twilight, of course!).  I decided to go back to school again when my youngest son started Kindergarten this past year.  I just finished Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School for the Arts (yesterday, in fact) and I work at Whole Foods as a Prepared Food/Catering Chef.  I also have my own business providing private chef services, cooking classes, catering, and retail sales.  My niche market is dealing with people who have food allergies and/or strict diet restrictions.

Like many of you, I picked up Twilight series back in 2009 and haven’t stopped thinking about them since.  I’ve NEVER obsessed about books or movies like this before.  I couldn’t stop reading these books and watching the Twilight movie over and over again.  I told my neighbors about them and eventually got them to read the series, they were hooked!  (Yes, they’re my roomies for the TFMU!)  We couldn’t stop reading the series over and over, but wanted more.  Then we found Twilight FanFiction.   That’s when the new obsession started.  Not only were these stories juicier than the original books, but also there were endless stories about these characters.  We started a list of the stories we read and liked.  One story inspired me to take a trip with my husband to Italy.  Do you remember The University of Edward Masen by Sebastien Robichaud?  I’ve seen all of this in person now.  I loved it!  I could move to Florence, Italy tomorrow!

I’m only a reader, but I am in awe with the authors of these Twilight FanFiction stories.  I’m so excited to see that some of their stories are actually getting published, and even made into a movie (cough cough, MOTU, cough cough).  I can’t wait to meet everyone at TFMU. 

Now that I’m done with school, I can go back to my full-time job of reading Twilight FanFiction, LOL!

Jennifer Starrett

Okay, A. I LOVE YOUR JOB. MMMM..WHOLE FOODS. *wipes drool* AND B. CONGRATS ON GRADUATING! You *TOTES* deserve a trip to Vegas!

Thanks for sending us your spotlight! We'll see you soon!! 

xoxo

TFMU Team

Attendee Spotlight - @MaxieMooseFF

*RINGS THE TFMU GONG* 
Welcome, Welcome! Everyone say hello to MaxieMooseFF!

*Waves* everyone. Here’s my Attendee Spotlight!

1. What was the 1st Twilight FanFiction that you read? Did it only entice you to read more? 

The first TwiFic I read was Confessions of a Nanny. I had written and wrote Vampire Academy at that point, but became an instant fan of the Twifandom. It’s like crackfiction in my house. Two of my favorite stories of all time are The Wedding Party by spanglemaker9 and Sin by Mamasutra, who just happens to be my roommate for the TwiFic Meetup!

2. What are you most looking forward to at the Twific Meet Up?

Meeting fellow readers and writers of the Twifandom and having a great time.

3. Are you a reader or a writer, or both?

Both! I started off in Vampire Academy FF, just finishing up my third story over there. Right now all I read are TwiFics. Writing for TwiFic has been; Postsecret Contest last fall and round 5 of the Twilight 25. I’m working on a Twilight fic that I’ll start posting after I finish my last VA story.

I also just finished my first original YA contemporary romance novel. I’m editing it and I’ll be submitting to publishers and agents in a few weeks. If no one buys my book I’ll be self publishing it, but I prefer to go the route of traditional or epublishers.

4. Have you ever been to Vegas before? If yes, tell us what you loved/hated most about it.

Yes, go to Vegas a few times a year. I live in Simi Valley, CA and have good friends that live in Henderson, NV.

I have three must do restaurants/places for this Vegas trip: 1) Emeril's New Orleans Fish House for Crab Cakes (it's at MGM, we can walk from Monte Carlo), 2) Battista's Hole in the Wall - It's old school Vegas Italian food, off strip, you have to take a taxi, but so worth it. 3) And, I love cupcakes and the Cupcake wars, so I am dying for a cupcake at the Cupcakery in the Monte Carlo.

I love to shop in Vegas. I’d like to hang by the pool, get a massage, and see Bel Ami, if at all possible.

5. Have any pets? Kids? Work?

Married, two daughters (14 & 17), the picture is me with my oldest daughter. We have two dogs, a silky and a yorkie terrier.

Right now, I work for a Fortune 50 company as an Information Technology Portfolio Manager, but would like to be a writer full time some day.

Can’t wait to meet you all!

Cheers – René Rutter, penname René Gilley, FF call sign MaxieMoose


Yay for people who've already been to Vegas and can tell us where the good stuff is!! And I hope we can all go see Bel Ami aka the Rob Sex Thrust Show! Woohoo! 


Srsly. Thanks for sending us your spotlight, Rene! 
See you in Vegas!
xoxo
TFMU Team

Attendee Spotlight - @holdmeransom

YOU GUYS, THIS ONE'S A DOOZY. SAY HELLO TO ALL THESE PEOPLE (ERR...ONE LADY)!

Hello all!

My real name is Stephanie.

I suffer from epic wordiness and fic multiple personalities, so pardon the lengthy intro:

Some know me as HoldmeRansom, or maybe Lostluggage, or SoLostinTwilight… Mama and sometimes Crazy Bi…. oh. Perhaps I shouldn’t admit that one…

I work at Long Beach State in Los Angeles. I have a lovely son and supportive hubs that gracefully tolerates my fascination with British men. When I am not mentoring and acting like a college student myself, I am a lighting designer. Every other waking moment is spent writing, or Googling, or watching Amish documentaries. I read when I can, but am so far behind in reading, I wish I had my own Tardis to go back in time so I could have just a few more hours.

I am fail at drabbles. My attempt at a drabble is now longer than most novels. *Hangs head in drabbly shame*

My first introduction to Twilight was in the theatre waiting for Harry Potter, thinking that silly trailer with the boy who looked like Cedric would never amount to anything… *blushes*

Six months later my students insisted I read the books and then introduced me to more than a fade to black in the form of fan fic… namely The Office by tby789 and The List by Laura Cullen.

On a playful dare, my grad student made me write a saucy version of Bella’s bedroom with Edward. And thus started my daily routine of skipping the gym in favor of flattening my backside in order to write what all the voices in my head told me to write. Three years later, I am still writing my first multi-chapter story, Need To Escape over on Twilighted. It may never end.  

Other voices invade now and again, thanks to inspiration from my awkward BritBoy muse (thanks Rob for sporting the Amish alligator look) and I write them down, thinking one day I will be able to write something in under 500 words…

Oh look! This could be it!

I’m a little nutty and so excited about coming to Vegas (it’s like Chuckie Cheese without the bad pizza and screaming kids and there’s booze!). But most of all I can’t wait to meet up with some wonderful people that until now have been only on my screen. Can’t wait to meet ya’ll!

*glances at word count* whew… under 500! A miracle!

See you soon!

MWAH!

steph

Thank you Steph! We can't wait to meet you in VEGAAAAS!! 


xoxo
TFMU Team

Attendee Spotlight - NKubie

Give a big HELLLLLLO to NKubie!


Hi! I’m Nan, but known as NKubie on FFN, Twilighted and Facebook. Although I have a couple of stories posted, I still consider myself more of a reader than a writer. I LOVE reading Twific and it was a dream come true when I started getting the opportunities to pre-read. I also love Twilight (obviously), Rob, reading and my family, not necessarily in that order.  I’m also a big Edward/Bella shipper and HEA is generally a hard limit for me. As far as fics go, I love witty banter, intelligent writing and techversations (see below for more on that). In fact, I’m a huge sucker for a couple of text messages and emails between E&B.

I tend to like a lot of variety in my hobbies so I have also taken two years of drum lessons, Hip Hop dancing, Zumba and have performed in Community Theater. I’m a big Chicago Bears fan and love an eclectic variety of music.

I’m also the inventor of the word ‘techversation,’ which you can find on Urban Dictionary, as well as the founding member of SMUTT (Shitty Moms United Through Twific), which started during the group re-read of Emancipation Proclamation.

I live in a Chicago suburb, though I was born in New York and have also lived in New Jersey and Pennsylvania before moving to the Midwest. I’m married and have two children; a boy age 12 and girl age 5 (soon to be 6, which she will tell you often).  My mom also lives with us. Don’t get me started on that! LOL

This is not my first fanfic fandom (I started reading Harry Potter fanfiction), but it’s the first one where I really interacted heavily and certainly the first where I actually got to meet other fandom members in person.  To say I’m excited about going to the Meet Up is putting it mildly. I’m practically buzzing with anticipation! There are so many wonderful people that I need to give ginormous hugs to and that have become very dear friends.

I want to thank you to you ladies who have organized this get together! I don’t think I’d have the opportunity to meet so many of my fandom friends otherwise. Your hard work is not going unappreciated!

xo

Nan

Your very welcome, Nan. We can't wait to meet everyone in Vegas! :)

Attendee Spotlight - @JT040708

Please welcome Jenny0719! :)

*waves* I’m lame and am just going to answer all the questions given to us. I am no good at talking about myself.

So here it is:

1. What was the 1st Twilight FanFiction that you read? Did it only entice you to read more? Why or why not?

The first fic I *remember* reading was Holding Out For You by ObsessingOverEdward. I probably read some other widely known fic before then, but I was so overwhelmed, I can’t remember what it would have been. After that, I was consumed. I read everything I could get my hands on; I fic dived before I even knew what it was. What stands out for me most about HOFY, though – and I’ve said it before – was that after it completed, I thought that it was something I could do too. Maybe not as well, but it was the first time the possibility of writing occurred to me.

So I did.

2. What are you most looking forward to at the Twific Meet Up?

Meeting everyone and seeing those I’ve met before again. No really. That’s about it. And drinking. I mean, come on… It’s Vegas!

3. Are you a reader or a writer, or both?

Both

-If you're a writer, what genre(s) do you mainly write?  I write mostly AH, somewhat (depending on your definition) angsty stuff.  And that’s enough of that.

-If you're a reader, what genre(s) do you mainly read?  I’ll read almost anything so long as it’s well-written. I’m a grammar freak, so if I see something –beta’d or not – with a lot of grammar issues, I tend to drop it and move on to something else. I can’t help it.

4. Have you ever been to Vegas before? If yes, tell us what you loved/hated most about it. If you haven't been, what are you most excited to see - or on the opposite side of the spectrum - what are you most worried about when visiting Vegas? (I'm worried about excessive sweating, tbh.)

I love Vegas. I don’t gamble, but I do love going in and out of the casinos, etc, and just seeing the sights and how things have changed since the last time I was there. I’m looking forward to seeing LOVE again (We’ll be going Thursday night before the majority of people get there). As for being worried? Um… I don’t really have any worries. I’ve done a planned style meet-up before – Hi, Indy girls!!! – and it was a blast.

Except I got lost. So maybe that would be a worry ;)

5. Have any pets? Kids? If so, tell us how many and their breeds (the dogs, people, the dogs). We love animals! (Well, I do.) (And kids, too!)

My house is full. Like, to the brim. I have a nine year old daughter and a five year old son. We have a weimaraner and a miniature beagle. We also have a cat. Oh, and a betta.

You see what I mean now, don’t you?

  

6. What did you think of The Hunger Games movie? WHAT?! WE ALL SAW IT DIDN'T WE?! (Just kidding. Psst...go ahead and answer it if you want to, I won't care.)

Ha. Yeah, I saw it. I liked it a lot. That’s all I’m sayin’.

Bonus Question:

If you could be one FicBella, FicEdward, FicEmmett, FicJasper or FicAlice (you get the picture-pick any character) for one day - which one would it be? (I would totes be FicEdward in @TruceOver's A Tale of Two Cities)

Err…. Trick question!! Not answering! Lol

 LOL! It's not a trick question! ;) Can't wait to meet you, bb. 

We have 2 weeks and 2 days until TFMU. HOLY SHIT! SQUEEEEEE! Send us those spotlights NOW. HURRY! twificmeetup@gmail.com

Attendee Spotlight - @latua4him

It's tiiiiime to meet.... Teralyn! First, I'm not fond of being in the spotlight so I am venturing out of my comfort zone here.  :)   My name is Teralyn/ latuacantante4him/latua4him.   I am married to my high school sweetheart and we have 4 kids.  I have always loved to read and enjoyed  murder mysteries until a friend told me about the Twilight books.  I was hooked.  While checking SM's site to see when the last book would be out, I discovered Twilight Moms.  Lurked around that site and learned about  FF.  THEN I discovered the "mature" stories.  LEMONS!!!!  OHMYGOSH!!  SMUT!!!!!  I became a Fanfictionsmutaholic.  (I know, it's not a word)  I'm not kidding.  I have learned so much while reading FF.  Thank goodness for the Urban Dictionary and Google.  I was spending more time reading FF than cleaning the house. Since hubby was reaping the benefits of my online Sexucation, he gave me a cleaning service for Christmas so I wouldn't have to read in a dirty house.  LOL!!   I was hoping for a nanny, too, but it never happened.  My youngest knows that "one more chapter" means take out or cereal for dinner.  I have "met"  some incredible women on the Twilighted Forums.   I am looking forward seeing all of you in Vegas!!    Your story sounds soooo much like mine! Urban Dictionary and I are best friends! :) Send us your spotlights ASAP to: twificmeetup@gmail.com

Attendee Spotlight - @impetuouslamb / @masochisticlife

Drumroll please . . .  I can't wait to introduce you to my friend, Sandy. (Isn't she pretty?!!)

Everything you never knew you’ve always wanted to know about me:

1. I’m wayyyyy fun when I drink – unless I start crying

2. First FF: Strings by jdbeaner – after that I was hooked

     a. Unsolicited Feedback: I only read complete stories, as I’m too impatient to wait for updates, and it’s too hard to remember which story lines go with which story

3. Favorite FF: Everclear by Chandler2100 (It’s an Evanescence {the band} & Twilight crossover)

4. I don’t write ff, I merely read. I have beta’d, however I don’t have time to officially commit to it

5. I wear Cherry Chapstick and I cheat on my Cherry Chapstick

6. I love ALL ff, but prefer angst … and smut between any character combination

7. Insider Information: I plan on consuming massive amounts of sugar-free Red Bull vodka and Pinot Grigio – you should too

8. This meetup is taking my Vegas virginity! I’m counting on ALL OF YOU to make it the best ever! Give me booze, and I’ll keep up my end of the deal. I’m not super excited to do anything except be with @esbrandofheroin and a bunch of Twilight and Twific obsessives like myself – our destination is merely a means to an end!

9. Pets and kids – I have both – but do you REALLY CARE? I also have a husband. Stalk my Facebook for additional info about them: Sandy Brundage Anderson. This conversation is now over, as June 7-10 is officially FAMILY & RESPONSIBILITY FREE!!!

10. I’m dramatic and high maintenance, but have awesome hair, cute toes and an over the top, did she REALLY say that, flirty personality

11. I want a tattoo of the Cullen Crest – anyone want to get it with me while in Vegas?

12. I’m addicted to, and bi-polar on Twitter: @super5nova (boring RL me), @impetuouslamb (filterless, private account me), @masochisticlife (my new fav-star wanna-be me)

I mentioned Red Bull Vodka in there, right? Who is hosting a party in their room? How many pairs of wedge heels can a girl fit into a carryon suitcase?

I seriously can't wait to smooch and and squeeze you! Brace yo'self! :)

We only have 2.5 weeks until we are all in Vegas partying it up. WE NEED YOUR SPOTLIGHTS NOW. HURRY! twificmeetup@gmail.com

Attendee Spotlight - tsmo836

Let's give a warm welcome to our friend, tsmo836!

Hi, I am Tracy (tsm0836) and live in the 'Top End' of Australia. Full time shift worker with two boys 5/8.  I am at that age when everything is sagging and eye sight is going (oh the joy).  My FF addiction is kept hidden away from family and only one friend knows.  My family just thinks I read stories on the computer. .  Apart from my boys, who could be classed as animals sometimes, we have a menagerie of a rabbit/chooks/dog and various wild animals that are not welcome such as cane toads and snakes. 

A friend at work was going on about Twilight and told me to read the books.  It was about the time New Moon was coming out.  So it took me about three turns to finally watch Twilight.  I then went and bought the New Moon book.  Which I skipped through and couldn't see what all the fuss was about.  After being severely chastised for my disregard of the story I relented and read Twilight.  It was like the magic Ms Myers scattered through the pages worked it's way into my psyche and I read (reread NM) over a couple of days.  As I was going through a crappy time in RL the books pulled me in and sent me to a happier place.  Of course I needed more to feed this addiction.  Not too sure how I came about FF (old age will do that to my memory) or what was my first fic as I skipped through a lot of mediocre ones.  The one that stands out is, And with Thee Fade Away by Derdriu oFaolain.  I am blown away constantly by the quality of writing that is available for all to read for free.  I love the interaction with the writers.  As a reader only I appreciate the time and effort that goes into all stories and I do try to leave positive reviews or say nothing at all if I don't have anything nice to say.  There is so much I have taken from these stories and many times have been taken out of my comfort zone.  Just love a well written story do  have a preference for AH but will never discount a great Vamp fic.

The reason I am coming to this meet up is because I saw the author of my 'guilty pleasure' story pimping it in her A/N.  The opportunity to meet her and others that pulled me out of my R/L stuff and into their stories was too good an opportunity to miss.  As I don't tweet or Facebook this is my opportunity to indulge my obsession with like minded.  So I apologise now to these wonderful ladies who's stories I love, I promise I am not a scary stalker.  Will probably just gaze at you in awe. 

The last time I was in Vegas was in 1986 so no doubt a few things have changed.  Looking forward to people watching and just chatting my arse off about all things FF.  Cannot wait to meet you all.

X T

Thank you so so much for sharing with us, Tracy. I do have one question for you...what in the world is a chook?! ;-) No, seriously.

Can't wait to meet you in Vegas!

xoxo

theswandive

Attendee Spotlight - @IPaintEdward

Sssshh, everyone listen! IPaintEdward has something to tell you!


Hey all you crazy twi-gals.

My name is Ann, and the only way to explain how I came about Twilight and the fandom is this….

It’s all his fault!!!

That’s right. Let’s lay the blame squarely on the shoulders of my then just-turned 16 year old son. Yeah. It’s all his fault. He wanted to see what the hoorah was about and talked me into buying Twilight, the book, so he could see the movie when it came out the following month.

On his way out the door to jump on his bike, headed to Barnes and Noble to buy New Moon (a scant 2 days later), he said, “Here, Mom. You’ll like this.”

I was doomed.

I waited until Winter Break to start them; I didn’t want nightmares keeping me up. You know they’re about vampires, right? ROFL

Yeah, well, 4 days after starting them, I was googling “Twilight.”  Surely I wasn’t the only 50ish mom that fell in love with them. First, Twilight Moms; then some other things; finally, I found fan fiction.

O! M! G!

My first fic was “Wide Awake.” I read voraciously for a year, I couldn’t begin to tell you all the fics I read, and wound up becoming a beta. Uh, huh. A beta. Mambomama. Didn’t have a clue . . .

One of the lovely ladies I’ll name in a bit convinced me to start writing.  IPaintEdward was born. I tentatively put a toe in, and immediately withdrew. A few one shots under my belt and I decided to start a full length fic. Then life happened. I’m hoping by the time I see you wonderful gals in June there will be a couple new chapters of it up.

I have met and become friends with the most amazing assortment of ladies. Some I’ve never met in person; others I have, and still others, I will.

I’m an elementary school teacher, living in Southern California’s High Desert, with my man, two English bull dogs named Hercules and Bailey, a black cat that thinks he owns everything, and . . . our roommate. Ugh!

My son has moved to San Diego, to live with his dad and attend college after graduating from high school last May. I miss him terribly, but it’s also nice to just be me for a change. No more neighborhood mom!  Some days, I miss all the boys, but mostly, I’m just glad that part is over.

Over the years, as life changed and altered, my available time to sit and enjoy the fandom has dwindled, but I have never left it behind completely. Twilight owns me, or should I say Rob owns me, and I am a lifer. Some of my favorite writers to read are Breath of Twilight, Bella Madonna, Betty Smith, BilliCullen, Dragons Exist, HockeyMom4, Ms. Bond, PixieH, oh there are so many more. . . . If you haven’t heard of these gals, be sure to check out their amazing fics. You’ll thank me later.

I’m looking forward to this crazy twi-meet-up and can’t wait to be able to put faces to pen names and pen names to real names….you get the picture J

See ya all in (counting on fingers) OoOoo, 31 days!!!!


ACTUALLY, as of this post it's only TWENTY ONE DAYS! O. M. G.
We're excited to meet YOU too, Ann! Can't wait! 


There's still time to send us YOUR spotlight. Come on, you know you wanna! ;-D
twificmeetup@gmail.com


xoxo
theswandive

Attendee Spotlight - @Melolabel

Woohoo! Welcome, Melolabel!

My Spotlight

1. What was the 1st Twilight FanFiction that you read? Did it only entice you to read more? Why or why not?

I think the first fic I read was "First Light" by Blondie aka Robin.  And, yeah, it sucked me into the swirling, bottomless vortex of Twific. My "to be read" list grows about five times faster than I have time to read.

2. What are you most looking forward to at the Twific Meet Up? 

I'm most looking forward to meeting fandom friends and being able to talk shop with other similarly addicted people.

3. Are you a reader or a writer, or both?

I am both a writer and a reader. My penname/twitterhandle is Melolabel.  I have written a couple of historical westerns (Rancherward/Mail Order Bella  and Gunslingerward/Crazy Bella), a regency period one shot, a number of all-human romance/drama stories, and one lonely vamp fic. That one vamp fic is like my poor little red-headed stepchild of a story.  I loved writing it, but it just didn't get the love that some of my other stories, which is a bummer since I tweaked Bella's power and she threatens to make Emmett forget how to have sex.  :) It's one of my earlier pieces so it is not as polished as my more recent stories, but I still love it. I've got some ideas for another AH Regency fic that are percolating in my head, but I'm not ready to start posting anything new yet.  The thing about my writing is I try to focus on the story and the characters, and if an intimate moment comes up, I don't go the graphic route-hence why most of my stuff is T-rated.  I have written the occasional Honeymoon/wedding night outtake, but generally, I try to keep things on the PG-13 rated side of things.

As for what I enjoy reading, I love the period fics, I like AH, I like Vamp, I do not like triangles, protracted angst, cheating, and in general I'm a canon-shipper.  This also translates into my writing. I have a 100% HEA policy-some of the endings might make you cry, but they're still HEA. 

4. Have you ever been to Vegas before? If yes, tell us what you loved/hated most about it. If you haven't been, what are you most excited to see - or on the opposite side of the spectrum - what are you most worried about when visiting Vegas? 

He he.  I live in Vegas, but I haven't done a ton of touristy stuff, though really I'm most looking forward to just hanging out with everyone. What I'm not looking forward to is the 100+ degree heat that will be present in June. Seriously, we've been wearing shorts for the last two months already.  Another thing I don't like about the strip is the people passing out stripper cards.  To avoid, don't make eye contact and hold up a hand if they become insistent.  It's really annoying.  I also HATE jaywalkers. So don't do it. 

I love the Bellagio Fountain, Haven't been on a Gondola ride through the Ventian, but it looks fun.  The ride up the Eiffel Tower is kind of pricey but the view is pretty cool.  The hoover dam is also neat, but kind of a ways out and once you're there you have to pay for the tour in the underneath parts. I haven't had a chance to walk along the new bridge yet, but it looks like it would have an amazing view of the spillway. The shops at Cesars are very picturesque--lots of fancy boutiques. The King Triton animatronic show at the very end of the shops walk is pretty cheesy, but it's part of the Vegas experience, so might as well check it out while there.

5. Have any pets? Kids?

We have a parakeet named Perry--long story how he came to live with us.  And I have a hubs and 4 kids--3 boys and 1 girl ranging in age from almost 11 to 3 going on 30.

6. What did you think of The Hunger Games movie? WHAT?! WE ALL SAW IT DIDN'T WE?! 

I thought it was an okay, very sanitized, adaption of the book.  There was some stuff missing and stuff from the narrative that just didn't translate to the screen which gives kind of a skewed picture of who Katniss really is, but I enjoyed it--except for the "shaky cam" cinematography during most of the actual "games" part of the movie. And Josh Hutcherson is just too darn short to be paired with Jennifer and Liam.

Bonus Question:

If you could be one FicBella, FicEdward, FicEmmett, FicJasper or FicAlice (you get the picture-pick any character) for one day - which one would it be? (I would totes be FicEdward in @TruceOver's A Tale of Two Cities)

As much of a wussperv as I am, and as much of a B/E monoshipper or Canon shipper I am, LJ Summers is one of the very few writers who have made me feel OKAY about a non E/B pairing.  I think I would want to be Fic Bella in Young Man's Fancy by LJ Summers @sandyquill  http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6286237/1/Young_Mans_Fancy


Wow. 
A. I lol'd at "threatening Emmett to forget how to have sex". That's priceless. And B. THANK YOU FOR ALL THE VEGAS TIPS! I'd end up coming home with 38029288930 stripper cards! 


Thanks for going above and beyond, Mel! 


xoxo
theswandive

Attendee Spotlight - @AutumnLtd

Guys, give a warm welcome to Autumnltd!

Hey!  I’m Autumn or Autumnltd on Twitter.  I am a Technical Writer (Boring, I know…) from FL that has been lurking about the Fandom since 2009.  My first fanfic was Wide Awake by AngstGoddess003 and I was instantly smitten. 

I graduated from Florida State University and love to hang out with my friends or read a really good book when I'm not traveling. I do write, but not Fanfic (I'm so not brave enough) and am constantly amazed by some of the authors out there.  The biggest reason that I wanted to take part in the TFMU in Vegas was to experience an open forum of readers and writers together so we can support each other, in the Fandom and in real life.  I am so excited that I get the chance to hang out with such a talented bunch of people!  I can’t wait to meet everyone there…

And we can't wait to meet you! I'm a huge nerd and I love to do technical writing. I practically spasmed at the chance to write an employee manual. NERD(s) ALERT! ;-P


Thanks for sending us your spotlight! 


Do YOU want to be in the spotlight club? I know you do. Send us your info at twificmeetup@gmail.com


xoxo
theswandive

New Poll

Just a quick post to let you guys know . . .  23 days until TFMU!!!  HOLY MOLY, GUYS! It's almost here! YAY!


So, for the real reason I'm posting (lol) . . .  we have a new POLL. The "TFMU Meet & Greet / Official Reception / Brunch" form is to help us find out who is going to be attending these different activities so we can make reservations. Please fill it out ASAP.


Can't wait to see you guys in Vegas! WOOT!


xoxo
Amber/aleighy

Attendee Spotlight - @farlilok (aka shewoolf)

Hey, everybody! Say hello to shewoolf!

Hmmm...  never really liked talking about myself, but here goes.... first of all, some of you will know me as shewoolf, but my real name is Catherine. I guess I should explain my photo... I had the delightful experience of meeting Jackson Rathbone at the World Premiere of his newest movie "Cowgirls and Angels".  He was so down to earth and approachable.  He is a true Texas Gentleman! I work full time at a self storage facility.  I've been in this line for about 15 years and I love it.  In years past, I have been a dog groomer, dog trainer, ROII clerk for a major food supplier, web designer and photographer.  Yup, I'm no spring chicken (my brain says I am, but my body says otherwise!) My son actually got me into the Twilight movies and then I ran out bought all the books and read them over and over.  I found FanFiction through another website and found my heaven!  I spent my first year simply reading a doing a few reviews.  Even though I've written articles for a bull rider magazine (for 5 years), it took me a while to get the courage to finally post my own stories on FF.  I am humbled at the reception I've gotten!  Everyone has been wonderful! I am so looking forward to meeting everyone!  I've read so many of your stories and it will be lovely to get to meet you all. See ya soon! Catherine Well, well, well. Look at you, sittin' pretty with Mr. Jasper Rathbone. Some of us aren't so lucky. ;-) Thank you so much for sending us your spotlight, Catherine. We can't wait to meet you in Vegas! xoxo theswandive

Attendee Spotlight - @Dangrdafne

RUH ROH, Scooby! Dangerdafne is coming to Vegas!

Dangrdafne (pronounced Danger Daphne - from Danger Prone Daphne in Scooby Doo)

1. What was the 1st Twilight FanFiction that you read? Did it only entice you to read more? 

I think it was called Cocktails and Dreams but it has been down so long I don't even remember if that is the title any more but I loved it and I read more. Illegal Contact by JenGreen03 is another favorite. The Secret Changes in Bella Swan by SwedenSara was an incredibly helpful and real life fic. But my ultimate favorite fic is The Family Business by SuzsPetals.

2. What are you most looking forward to at the Twific Meet Up?

Going to Vegas. Meeting more Twilight fans.

3. Are you a reader or a writer, or both?

Read only, but honestly I have not read much lately. Real life has been quite busy.

4. Have you ever been to Vegas before? If yes, tell us what you loved/hated most about it.

I was to Vegas as a young girl and loved it. Then I was there 7 years ago and also loved it. Funny thing is the last time I was there, it snowed! I doubt very much that will happen this time :)

5. Have any pets? Kids?

I am married and I have two cats, Milo and Otis. That is Milo in my avi :)

See you all soon.

Sharon/dangrdafne

I LOVE The Family Business and I LOVE SuzsPetals! Let's discuss in Vegas. 

Thank you so much for sending us your spotlight! (Everyone do what Sharon did, because it's the cool thing to do, okay?)
Send it to twificmeetup@gmail.com
xoxo
@theswandive

Attendee Spotlight - @Amydee826

You guys. Look! It's Amydee826!

Hi, I'm Amy! Amydee826 on Twitter (when I occasionally tweet), Amydee on Twilighted, and Amy Marie on Facebook.

I like long walks on the beach, my family, my pets, reading about sweet Edwards that remind me of my wonderful husband, strong Bellas and porn.

I'm not a writer, just a reader of fanfiction.  This fandom is not the first that I have been into, but it will be the first where I get to meet others from it, in real life.  I read canon couples only, mainly Edward and Bella although I really enjoy Carlise/Esme (sadly it's difficult to find). 

The first twific that I read was either Wide Awake or Innocent, Vigilent, Ordinary.  I wish that I could remember which of those awesome stories that I read first but I have a toddler so my brain tends to retain things like the lyrics to songs on Yo Gabba Gabba and it deletes the more interesting stuff.  Finding my car keys is a daily issue but still entertaining since I can sing "Yummy in my Tummy" while looking under the couch and in all of my coat pockets.

I've never been to Las Vegas before.  I am so excited to go -and to meet with some like minded girls- that I find myself thanking the little baby Jesus that I have a strong heart and bladder control.

OMG. I already love you. "...my wonderful husband, strong Bellas and porn." You are the winner.

Thank you soo very much for sharing your deets! Can't wait to meet you in Vegas!

xoxo
@theswandive

Attendee Spotlight - @gingerandgreen

Hullo, hullo from across the pond! Welcome, gingerandgreen!

Hi TFMU,

This is a picture of me and my Oldest, taken a year ago at a wedding in Cape Town, South Africa. I actually live in England, and I'm travelling to the meet-up with my Irish friends Cared and Mary. We're going to meet Ilovealion there a day early, to bond. We haven't met face to face yet, so this is crazily exciting. Going to Vegas to meet the amazing people that are going too is one of the most selfish and insane things I have ever done, and I can hardly wait.

Both of my lovely teenage girls are slightly embarrassed by my Twific obsession, and won't indulge me at the cinema or in any other way. My sweet man is very supportive. He even pre-reads my WiP for me. He is my enabler, and the reason I can come and play.

I am a teacher. I teach adult literacy and English for speakers of other languages; and I am a dyslexia assessor. My guilty pleasure is reading and loving the fabulous stories that I secretly think are written by dyslexic authors - but I will never divulge which ones. I think storytelling is so much more important than grammar or spelling or punctuation. I guess that's why I love Twilight - for the wild storyline. Of course, I also love the stories that are perfectly structured, literary works, and expertly beta-ed - and there are plenty of those in this fandom.

I've been fortunate to have travelled a lot in my life, and I've been to Vegas before - 21 years ago, with My Man, not long after we married. I wonder how much it's changed? I've lived a lot of life since then, and I hope this trip will be one of the highlights, just like the last trip was. 

Can't wait to meet you all!

Gingerandgreeen

Thank you so much for sending us your story! We can't wait to meet you (and make you say American things in your funny accent.) ;-D 


Send us your spotlight, people! We want to know who you are! :-D


twificmeetup@gmail.com

Attendee Spotlight - @1Lavishone

Raise the roof! It's our TwiMerch Winner, 1Lavishone!

*waves*

I am really awful at these things, so I hope you all aren't disappointed by this.

I'm married, I'm a working mom, and I love Twilight and Twific. :) I tweet a lot and sometimes I even make sense.

Can't wait to see you all and talk your faces off (because that's what I do!).

xoxo,

1Lavishone

Oh dear, it seems we'll have to get you drunk and interrogate you for more information. Maybe we should start a committee for this sort of thing. Who wants to join the "Get Her Drunk and Spill Committee"? 


SEND US YOUR SPOTLIGHT! twificmeetup@gmail.com

Attendee Spotlight - @mana_liz

Hey ya'll, say howdy to Mana_Liz!

Hi, Everyone...I'm Amanda (mana_liz on Twitter). Yes, another Amanda. 

I didn't get into Twilight until my little sister bought the movie. I watched it on Wednesday with her and was at Target on Thursday buying my own copy & all 4 books. I devoured them in 3 days. I found fanfiction by accident really, when I joined Twitter. Someone tweeted a link to "Dark Side of the Moon" and I was hooked. I actually prefer to read human fics over vamps ones. I'm pretty much only read Edward/Bella fics ... except for The Trip Home and a couple of Jasper/Alice fics. I'm strictly a reader...I'm a creative person, except when it comes to writing. 

This will be my 3rd trip to Vegas. I'm not a huge gambler, strictly stick to penny and nickel slots. I know high stakes all the way. I love to walk around the casinos and just people watch. 

I don't have any kids and I'm not married. I recently bought my first house with my sister. We are looking to adopt a couple of dogs in the near future. For now, I just go back to my Mom's and visit her 2 dogs and 2 cats.

I haven't seen or read The Hunger Games. I have no interest in them.

I look forward to meeting some of my friends from Twitter in Vegas. And, hopefully making a few new friends there, as well.

Amanda

Thanks so much, Amanda!  (I'm Amanda, too! AMANDAS UNITE!) Sorry.


Want to be in the spotlight? (You better hurry!) Email us at twificmeetup@gmail.com :-D
xoxo
@theswandive

Attendee Spotlight - @JenJadeEyes

JenJadeEyes is a total sweetheart. Give her a warm welcome!

Hello all - my name is Jen - JenJadeEyes is the name you'll see my under on ff.net and Twitter. I was dragged to the first Twilight movie by my niece Harley, who asked me to take her to see "that new vampire movie." I told her I wouldn't if there was gore involved; I don't do gore. She told me it was a love story. I didn't believe her, and the minute Edward covered his mouth in the classroom, I turned to her and said, "I'm telling you, if he hurls, we're leaving the theater." He didn't, she convinced me that Bella was funnier in the books (and by this, she must have meant more sarcastic, is all I can figure), and I read all four the next weekend. Then I was hooked.

I honestly can't remember which fic I read first, but the first BIG one was Wide Awake. I miss HunterHunting and TaraSueMe. KiyaRaven's "The Screamers" is funny/heartrending. I also enjoy historical fics - as long as I can't spot an anachronism. If I see one, I have to stop reading. It's a thing. Lady Gwenydd is my go-to historical fic writer.  I also write fic - I'm currently working on an ending to my first longer story (over 10 chapters); I'm hoping to have that done before I get to Vegas! (Insert snickering from SqueakyZorro and HollettLA here....)

I've been married for 12 years (so stop me if you see me drunkenly heading to a wedding chapel with someone in tow), and am a SAHM to an energetic and creative 6 1/2 (the half is IMPORTANT) year old daughter and a four year old boy who never stops walking around.  We just moved into a new house; I still have boxes everywhere.  I'm going to NEED the vacation in a few weeks! 

I helped put together IndyTFMU. We had a great time with a great group of ladies, and I'm really looking forward to having a great time and meeting everyone I can in Las Vegas! I haven't been before, and quite frankly, I sunburn so quickly I'll be like an old-fashioned vampire and avoid this sun like the plague while I'm there. That's cool though, it'll leave me more time to meet more wonderful people and chat about fic with like-minded folks!

It's getting so close now!  *CHEER*

Can't wait to meet you!

Attendee Spotlight - @MistressRowynn

Please welcome the very beautiful, Mistress Rowynn Eire. She will be speaking at TFMU! :)

My name is Mistress Rowynn Eire, and I am a Professional Dominatrix and BDSM/fetish/alternative lifestyle educator. I am the creator and host of the series "Ask A Mistress LIVE!" and have been providing education on kink to the public for several years. My purpose at this convention is to provide a lecture and Q&A segment to your group in order to shed light on the subject and psychology of BDSM and in so doing to allow writers of fan fiction within your group to write better informed characters and scenes with a BDSM foundation. 

Seriously. Cannot. Wait. *faints*

We are almost out of time. PLEASE send us your attendee spotlights by this weekend. twificmeetup@gmail.com

Attendee Spotlight - @thetinkk

INTRODUCINGGGGG... thetinkk! :)

1. What was the 1st Twilight FanFiction that you read? Did it only entice you to read more? Why or why not?

First fic I read was Ithaca is Gorges by giselle-lx.  Absolutely loved it!  Carlisle's mind was amazing, and the pain of having Edward leave was so visceral.  

First AH was Coming to Terms by GinnyW.  I was surprised that I enjoyed an Edward who wasn't a vampire.

2. What are you most looking forward to at the Twific Meet Up?

Meeting a lot of the people I've only been able to chat with on gchat.  Can't wait to see them in person.  :)

3. Are you a reader or a writer, or both?

Both

-If you're a writer, what genre(s) do you mainly write?  I've written a little of everything, honestly.  My most current story is an Alternate Universe.  

-If you're a reader, what genre(s) do you mainly read?  A little of everything - but it has to be well written.  Not a fan of unbeta'd work.

4. Have you ever been to Vegas before? If yes, tell us what you loved/hated most about it. If you haven't been, what are you most excited to see - or on the opposite side of the spectrum - what are you most worried about when visiting Vegas? (I'm worried about excessive sweating, tbh.)

Been to Vegas a bunch of times.  I don't gamble, really, but I enjoy walking through some of the newer casinos and walking along the strip to watch the fountains at the Belagio, etc.  Vegas is an great place to people-watch, my favorite pasttime while I'm there.  I LOVE the roller coaster at the New York, New York, and I'm totally planning on riding the Big Shot on top of the Stratosphere.  Worries...not many.  Maybe the heat.  

5. Have any pets? Kids? If so, tell us how many and their breeds (the dogs, people, the dogs). We love animals! (Well, I do.) (And kids, too!)

1 overgrown kid - aka husband, 4 children, and 2 cats - oh and a grandpuppy (a very intelligent German Shepherd).  :)

6. What did you think of The Hunger Games movie? WHAT?! WE ALL SAW IT DIDN'T WE?! (Just kidding. Psst...go ahead and answer it if you want to, I won't care.)

Of course I saw it.  Made me wish someone else had made the Twilight movies, js.

Bonus Question:

If you could be one FicBella, FicEdward, FicEmmett, FicJasper or FicAlice (you get the picture-pick any character) for one day - which one would it be? (I would totes be FicEdward in @TruceOver's A Tale of Two Cities)

That isn't a fair question!  lol

Honestly, I really enjoy the FicBella in 'A Garment of Brightness'.  She is discovering the truth about Edward in a much healthier way.   It's the same reason I enjoy 'The Keepsake' so much.  A much healthier relationship between Edward and Bella.

Can't wait to meet you! Please send us your spotlights! We are running out of time!