WHAT DO THEY DO AT THOSE WRITERS CONVENTIONS?

In the midst of moving, Gerhardt and I took time to roar off to San Antonio for the annual Romance Writers of America convention. Some of you may be wondering what goes on at one of these gatherings (although most of you probably could care less!). Well, let me tell you, there's much squealing and hugging as women who haven't seen each other all year convene to share their latest writing adventures and encourage each other in a rewarding, frustrating, difficult profession that, I've concluded, you have to be a little bit crazy to choose. And I must admit, I did some squealing myself, like when I discovered my latest book advertised on one of the Marriott Hotel's elevators. There I was, right along with my buddy SUSAN WIGGS. What a memorable moment!
    I not only met up with old friends, I made some new ones. And I made a fool of myself gushing over SUSAN ELIZABETH PHILLIPS and KRISTAN HIGGINS, two authors I've admired for some time and never had the chance to meet - both are lovely ladies and I suspect I made a fool of myself germing all over them. (By the way, if you're wondering what a germ is, that's Nashville speak for a ridiculously gushy fan. It's pronounced with a hard "g" as in gush. And that was me!)
    This is a conference where hopes soar and dreams can come true. Writers learn more about both the business and the craft of writing. When it comes to writing, I don't know if a girl ever "arrives." I, for one, am always learning, and the RWA is famous for how much information and help the romance community gives each other.
    Gerhardt came along with me to keep me out of trouble and we enjoyed seeing the Alamo and checking out the River Walk. (The heat down there almost did me in though. All you Texans... how do you stand it?!) I had a great time catching up with my writing buddies, did a bunch of business, had some very productive meetings and enjoyed the getaway, but I was very happy to return to the Pacific Northwest. We're having a hot summer up here but it's nothing like what you folks are going through down there!
    Anyway, the party's over and now it's back to unpacking boxes and trying to make room for us in a new and much smaller place. (An extreme challenge for my pack rat husband! Wish us luck.