SCBWI has always been about connection and networking, so there’s a strong element of that at most conferences. But I’m with you–it’s intimidating for a first-timer who is still thinking about her new project and not necessarily about platforms and submission preferences.

But the next conference you go to, you *won’t* be a first-timer. It gets easier, especially when you make friends! Good luck and thanks for stopping by. You’re always welcome!

Ha! I need you over here. I’ve been trying to grab shots of men in kilts for a blog post title “Yup, they really do wear them,” but I’m not fast enough most of the time. Pah! 🙂

I’m thinking more of a parasol, something you carry if you want to . . . or not. The agents were adamant about having a big media presence, especially Twitter. I find Twitter tedious and fiddly and not just because I’m old. In fact, the best part of being older is understanding what is useful and what is a waste of time.

It’s raining here today, so the porch isn’t very cozy. I’ll take your bistro table any time. Tea, hummingbirds, and you!

Not a bit. And the guy I was standing right next to in line didn’t seem me take his picture either. I don’t use a phone, remember, but a real camera. I’ve learned to be very, very fast.

I feel so uneasy when talk turns to “reach,” platform, and the like. I know they’re important, but shouldn’t they be the petticoats of the business–foundational garments and not everyday attire?

Come sit next to me, won’t you, at my backyard bistro table or on your inviting front porch? Somewhere cozy, where we can lounge in our comfiest clothes, absent the glare of social media. I’ll pour the tea, if you’ll share with me your story… xoxo

Hilarious! I wonder if he was aware that you were recording his ennui? 🙂

Well, now you have time to read anything you want! And one day–maybe sooner than we both think–your son will be at one of those conferences, connecting with like-minded people who love to make books.

Don’t you love that kid? I do! I was at the fair this summer, waiting to get on the Ferris wheel. He was sitting in the grass just beyond with all his fair winnings. I think he was waiting for somebody. He would not sit still, like most boys. He fidgeted and played with his toys, and then finally just reared back with his legs in the air like a pony in new grass.