And back I go...

As you read this, I’m back in Texas.

Unlike the trip to Dallas just over a week ago, this trip is designed to be pure family fun. No high heels. No worrying about my pitch. No wondering if I made an ass of myself in front of someone I’ll want to submit to one day. Nothing to iron. No girdle and it doesn’t matter. I may even go braless (I figure the chances of an editor being there and recognizing me are pretty slim. Watch me be wrong.)

Now, bathing suits and the impossibility of finding one that looks good on me is another rant entirely. I'm considering a Burqini.

Sea World and Schlitterbahn, here we come. Hopefully, Texas will dry out some and we’ll actually get to go and do things. AC is really looking forward to seeing Shamu and rocketing down water slides. (Side note: Spell Check does not like “Shamu.” I figured he was some kind of icon and would have made the dictionary by now…)

I’ve spent the week between trips to Texas catching up on stuff—emails, articles I owe people, and following up on folks who, in a moment of weakness, agreed to be interviewed for the Playground. Once I get back, I have to buckle down and get some work done. You know, like finish that book that the editor requested the full of—my CP will be getting lots to read.

But Nationals always gets me moving. I think it’s a mixture of inspiration and shame. I’m inspired by the energy of the conference, the stuff I learned in workshops, and the success of other writers. I’m also shamed by their productivity and realize I Must Get To Work.

Shame is a powerful motivator for me.

What motivates you?

PC

***
Y’all weren't very forthcoming on the embarrassing stories last Tuesday, were you? They were that bad, huh? Too painful to share? ~snort~

Technically, I’d like to give my prize to our Playground Monitor for admitting she owns “grandma shoes,” but since I benefited from them (and they were comfy), I’ll refrain. So the winner of most embarrassing story of the last seven days was cherie j. Email me (problemchild@writingplayground.com) with your address and I’ll get a surprise in the mail to you once I get home.