Lots of people count down to important events, some bigger than others. Back in the day, when space exploration was still new and men were about to hurl off toward the moon, countdowns were occasions for great anticipation.

As a kid, my happiest countdown was to Christmas. I loved the little calendars with the windows you opened each day in December. Each one that put us closer to the 25th stirred excitement.

Writers, I’m sure, count down to book releases. Some might count down to Facebook launch parties or book signing events. At summer time, I’d be surprised if some people–adults and children–weren’t counting down to a much anticipated vacation. But, of course, after that comes the countdown to that first day of the new school year.

As important as all those are, I’m not referring to any of those countdown events. Rather, I have two in mind. First is the countdown to the voting for the Clive Staples Award. Round one begins IN ONE WEEK. Second is the countdown to the announcement of the CSA winner which will take place at the Realm Makers Conference IN ONE MONTH. Well, technically, in one month and two day. The Conference will be held August 2-3 and the winner will be announced on Friday, August 2.

The big question when any countdown starts is, are you ready? In regard to voting for the Clive Staples Award, “being ready” simply means you have read two of the nominated titles and have you reviewed the standards which define a winning book (part 1 and part 2).

When it comes to the Realm Makers Conference, being ready starts with signing up to attend. The rest involves the usual conference preparation–transportation arrangements and the like.

So, how are you progressing as the countdowns move forward? Are you ready?