MNSCBWI
On Saturday, a writing friend and I drove to the Twin Cities for the MNSCBWI fall conference. Considering I was going in order to learn the nuances of industry professionals, connect with some "old" pals, and make a few new connections, I can say the trip was a complete success!
As I listened to famous people like Lin Oliver, Dianne Gray, Jennifer Rees, Alyssa Eisner Henkin, and Andrew Karre, I didn't pick up any brand new, fascinating, bestseller writing tips. However, I did get the little insights into the industry and the pros that I wanted. For example, I learned enough about Alyssa to decide if I want to look into her as a possible agent for myself in the future. I learned that Jennifer actually wants you to call (a short, pleasant call) her if you haven't heard from her in six months.
I connected with Dianne, who I now consider a good friend. She always makes me feel important. I love it! And, she's incredibly humble. Great person to know. I met up with an editor buddy who introduced me to another editor. I also got a talented illustrator to become a mentor for one of my talented 10 year old students.
I also met new people at my lunch table and in the ladies' room line. During one of the fun parts of the day, I decided to sit out and write. Yes, write! At a writers' conference. Who would've thought!
What a great day! I even got a Christmas present (but I've got to find Dianne to sign it! She ran off, and I never saw her again.)
I think my little writing moment may have inspired my first novel, which I'll start next month. Oh, joy!
As I listened to famous people like Lin Oliver, Dianne Gray, Jennifer Rees, Alyssa Eisner Henkin, and Andrew Karre, I didn't pick up any brand new, fascinating, bestseller writing tips. However, I did get the little insights into the industry and the pros that I wanted. For example, I learned enough about Alyssa to decide if I want to look into her as a possible agent for myself in the future. I learned that Jennifer actually wants you to call (a short, pleasant call) her if you haven't heard from her in six months.
I connected with Dianne, who I now consider a good friend. She always makes me feel important. I love it! And, she's incredibly humble. Great person to know. I met up with an editor buddy who introduced me to another editor. I also got a talented illustrator to become a mentor for one of my talented 10 year old students.
I also met new people at my lunch table and in the ladies' room line. During one of the fun parts of the day, I decided to sit out and write. Yes, write! At a writers' conference. Who would've thought!
What a great day! I even got a Christmas present (but I've got to find Dianne to sign it! She ran off, and I never saw her again.)
I think my little writing moment may have inspired my first novel, which I'll start next month. Oh, joy!
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