This year's Romance Writers of America National Conference in Orlando was my first. Actually, there were quite a few firsts. First conference (and I had a cute little ribbon so that everyone else knew it too), first trip to Orlando, to Disney World, first vacation in ten years, first time meeting so many of my online friends, first time hanging with such a large group of other writers, agents and publishing professionals.
I tried to take it easy, and having my family along gave me an excuse to escape when I became overwhelmed by it all, which was great. But although I think it was the best decision for them to be with me, I don't think I will bring the hubby and kiddo to New York if I'm lucky enough to go next year. I felt bad every time I had to leave them to their own devices, but I felt guilty when I used them as an excuse to take off from the conference festivities too (it costs so much, I felt obligated to get my money's worth).
Besides the food (which was pretty bad, I have to admit), the pool, the parks, the free books, the parties, the karaoke, the dresses, etc... I must say that it would still have all been worth the stress and the money. The opportunities that I made for myself, that presented themselves, that could only have developed in this particular environment, were phenomenal and I'm so glad for them.
Tiffany absolutely stole the show. She was the glowing belle of the ball, and I was so proud to see her strutting her stuff. She totally deserved the attention (Sue Grimshaw LOVES The Surrender of a Lady!!) and looked fabulous in her RED shoes!And Maggie was our gracious grande dame. Beautiful and stylish, with an entourage of fans fawning all over her. I absolutely love her, and am so happy to have gotten the chance to finally give her a hug in person!
I was so excited to also finally meet both Terri O and 2nd Chance, Stephanie Janulis and Mary Danielson, Cheeky Reads, Courtney Milan, Tessa Dare, Anna Campbell, Lindsey Faber, Sara Lindsey, Viv Arend (all of whom are absolutely beautiful and amazing)--and also some fabulous NEW friends!
So now I've returned from this conference feeling energized, motivated, determined, and optimistic. I'm writing frantically and can't wait to see what the rest of the year will hold for my career!
Thank you to all of the friends I met, made, and reconnected with. And thank you to those who couldn't be there, for your support and encouragement.
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I am so glad you got so much out of the conference. I love meeting my on-line friends for the first time and making life long friends of them all. They are an amazing group of people. (this is another reason you need to come to NYC next year).
Everything (save for the food) about conference makes it all worth while. The networking. The exchange of ideas. The fun. The laughs. The workshops. The panels. The amazing amount of books you walk away with.
I hope you do come to NYC next year whether pitching your heart out or with contract in hand!
Kris, the very best thing about RWA10 was meeting you and Tiff! Sharing that first night with you and my own girls (and the champagne *g*) is my warmest memory. I hope everything comes true for you!
I MISS YOU GIRLS ALREADY! We had such a great time. And Kris, escaping with the family---hell, it's much needed for all of us. I escaped a few times to do nothing more than play on the net, kick up my feet, and have a glass of red! LOL
And I have to say, I loved, LOVED meeting Maggie's daughters and little darling Sadie!
I can't wait for RWA NYC!!! Not only will it be closer, but I'm positive there will be better food.
And the Sue Grimshaw news was definitely a huge highlight for my trip to National's this year!
Wow, you all look gorgeous! I'm so happy everyone seems to have had such a fabulous time. I did see Tiff's red shoes, too. Very hot. :)
I already can't wait for NY. I really really want to go. Especially seeing all these gorgeous pictures that are coming in.
I'm so glad you had a breathing! I missed all of you!!! So glad you're all back. xoxoxo
So wonderful to hear you had a blast! Thanks for posting the pics! It made my day to see what all the glitz and glam. :)
I can't wait to see more!!
I could have sworn I commented over here yesterday. I had a great time and loved meeting up with everyone. The fun was in knowing I could walk into the lobby bar at any time and find a friendly face. LOL!
I cannot wait for NYC. Partly because I've never been there but mostly because it's the most fun week of the year!
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