The Comprehensive, Must-Have, Magical, Mystical Packing List Rises

I just looked at my calendar and realized I'm leaving for the RWA conference in Anaheim in less than two weeks. Not ready? Neither am I. I have been crazy busy. But not too busy to revive this list from the dead. I depend on it, every year, so I thought I'd bring it back to life to help others.  It's tradition and a great place to start building your own list if you don't have one already.


Mine is broken into sections, starting with what I'm wearing on the plane. These are usually items that are too bulky to pack and comfortable for travel. Jeans, a sweater and sneakers are must haves in my book and I've racked up my share of airline miles in them. Planes get cold and I've been so happy to have my sweater instead of wearing shorts and flip flops like all the other tourists. Plus, when they change your gate for the 10th time or your plane is late and you have 5 minutes to make your connection, sneakers are a godsend.

Wear on Plane :
- Shirt
- Jeans
- Sweater
- Sneakers (or slip-ons for walking to make getting them on and off in security easier)
- Socks

Then I have the list of what goes in my backpack. I like backpacks because my hands are free, but this could be your small roller bag, laptop, your toiletry bag...whatever. Just make sure these items are in a bag you physically have custody of at all times. Must have stuff. You don't want it to end up in DC while you're waiting at the luggage carousel in Orange County

Backpack :
- Plane Itinerary / Ticket
- Camera & Battery Charger
- Cell Phone & Charger
- 1 extra pair of panties & socks (just in case)
- Book or e-Reader of choice (& charger) to read on the plane
- ID and/or Passport (I keep this and some cash in an easily accessible pocket - one that zips for security - for the 20 times I have to get it out to travel. This is mainly because of the next item.)
- Purse (I transition to a smaller purse and stuff it inside my backpack so I have less to carry. This makes it harder to get to, so I take a few essentials out for the day. Even though you won't need your keys, be sure to carry them with you as well so you have them when you get home.)
- Snacks & An Empty Water Bottle (They don't feed you on planes anymore, so this is a MUST. Its also good to have once you get to Nationals so you have something to eat aside from the overpriced hotel food. As for the water bottle, you can refill it as you travel, but it must be empty to get through airport security.)
- Prescription Medication (Never, ever check your pills with your luggage.)
- Travel Alarm Clock (If you can't set your cell phone, and you can, I'm pretty sure)
- Mini flashlight
- Business Cards
- Presentation Materials and/or laptop (I'm doing a workshop this year, so anything I need is staying on my person.)

Next is what goes in my toiletry bag. Mine is actually a small bag that fits inside my luggage, which is good considering all the charges for extra pieces these days. If you're carrying this on, remember all liquids, gels and aerosols must be smaller than 3 ounces and must all fit within a clear, one quart ziplock bag. You have to pull this out and run it through the security x-ray separately. If you do check the bag, I still recommend putting liquids inside a ziploc bag in case a bottle comes open and leaks all over your clothes.

Toiletry Bag :
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss & Mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush
- Shampoo & Conditioner (if you can use the hotel provided ones, ok, but my hair is too picky)
- Lotion and Soap (I will use the hotel provided stuff, but if you can't, pack your own)
- Hair Products - Gel, Hairspray, Mousse, Detangler
- Hair Electronics - blow dryers, curling iron, flat iron, etc. (coordinate w/ roommates to cut down on unnecessary appliances)
- Makeup, brushes, cotton applicators, good mirror, tweezers
- Moisturizer w/ SPF (you might also take outright sunblock if you'll be outside a lot)
- Razor & Shaving gel
- Feminine Hygiene (I always take an emergency stash just in case.)
- OTC Meds - Pain Reliever, Antacids, Stomach Pills
- Clear and colored nail polish & file for manicure fixes and hosiery runs
- First Aid Kit & Extra bandaids (if you have to ask, you haven't read this blog for very long)
- Mini Sewing Kit
- Mini bottle of Downy Wrinkle Release Spray & Febreze
- Bandaid Friction Block

Luggage :
- Another copy of your flight itinerary in case your bag loses its ID tag
- Panties x # of days, plus one or two if you're going siteseeing and might get sweaty
- Sport or Trouser Socks x # of days needed
- 1 pair pantyhose (I hate them, but its good to carry one pair JIC. I have a pair of shoes that just rubs something fierce without them, but are super comfortable otherwise)
- Regular bras & dress bras (as needed for formals, etc)
- Spanx (the ever-so important foundation garment) & slips as needed
- Casual tops x # of siteseeing/travel days
- 1 pair jeans (if you aren't doing a lot of tourist stuff, this might not be necessary, especially as I'm wearing a pair on the plane)
- Seasonal Jacket, etc, as needed (depends on where you're going, as SFO was cold, NYC is NOT)
- Pajamas (I don't know how many times I stress over every outfit, then forget PJs)
- Daytime Outfit Components (see breakdown below)
- Party Outfits as needed for Ritas, etc.
- Swimsuit, if you think you might manage to make it to the spa at some point
- Badge Lanyard with conference and chapter pins
- Shoes - At a minimum, 2 pairs of comfortable casual shoes or sandals, 1 or 2 dress pairs for formals, maybe some slippers or flip flops if you're inclined to swim or visit the spa. If you coordinate your outfit to a color scheme, you can cut down to less. I do not recommend wearing the same shoes every day, even if it matches. I find even the most comfortable pair will start to rub and make your feet sore if you wear them over and over. You will do a lot of walking.
- Jewelry - Make sure you know what you're wearing with each piece and put them all together in a bag with tissue if you don't have a jewelry travel case.

Finally, to determine my outfits, I use a daily breakdown. I try to bring some neutral pieces like black capris or a skirt that I can use a couple times. Microfiber is awesome - it doesn't wrinkle and it takes up almost no space in your bag. I also advocate the inclusion of one extra outfit that lies somewhere between your workshop attire and your formal in case you get an impromptu invite to a dinner or a party someplace nice. Here's my breakdown based on my typical activities...

Wednesday - black microfiber skirt, pink top, black sandals, pink jewelry
Thursday - black capris, blue microfiber top, black sandals, blue jewelry
Thursday Night - eHQN PJ party attire, flip flops/slippers
Friday - black microfiber skirt, purple microfiber top, black sweater, black heels, purple jewelry
Friday Night - black formal, sale shoes, black/silver jewelry
Saturday - black capris, pink satin top, black sandals, pink jewelry
Saturday Night - black and pink formal, pink heels, pink jewelry
Sunday - t-shirt, jeans, etc. for flight home (add days as needed if you're siteseeing)
Pitch Outfit - if you are pitching, bring the outfit that makes you feel your best if its not already one of the ensembles you're wearing
Extra Outfit - a fabu just in case outfit that you can wear with the shoes and jewelry you're already planning to bring

Hope The Comprehensive, Must-Have, Magical, Mystical, Packing List helps make planning for the big trip a little easier for you. Have I missed anything? What's on your must pack list?

Andrea AKA SP

Free Book Friday - Conference Edition

Man, I'm whooped. Conference kicked my tail. But as always, it was fun. As an introvert, it pretty much sucks my soul out and I have go crawl under a rock for a few days to recouperate.

While I'm recovering from my normal post-Nationals hangover, lets give away some of the books I picked up while I was there. I hit several of the obligatory publisher signings, got a bag of books from RWA, guest speakers, etc., so there's plenty to give away this next year.

First, one from our Awards Luncheon speaker, Sherrilyn Kenyon.


No Mercy by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Live fast, fight hard and if you have to die then take as many of your enemies with you as you can. That is the Amazon credo and it was one Samia lived and died by. Now in contemporary New Orleans, the immortal Amazon warrior is about to learn that there's a worse evil coming to slaughter mankind than she's ever faced before. Shapeshifter Dev Peltier has stood guard at the front of Sanctuary for almost two hundred years and in that time, he's seen it all. Or so he thought. Now their enemies have discovered a new source of power- one that makes a mockery of anything faced to date. The war is on and Dev and Sam are guarding ground zero. But in order to win, they will have to break the most cardinal of all rules and pray it doesn't unravel the universe as we know it.

Next, one from RITA finalist, Kelly Hunter, who was very nice to me when the last martini hit me like a ton of bricks at the HQ party and I became an idiot.

With This Fling... by Kelly Hunter

Successful archaeologist Charlotte Greenstone has no time for men, so invents a convenient one--who bears a highly "inconvenient" resemblance to sexy stranger Greyson Tyler! To protect her mortifying white lie, Charlotte begs Grey to act as her temporary fiance....

One glimpse of Charlotte's killer curves, and Grey can't resist making his own outrageous proposition--he'll pretend to be her fiance... if they can enjoy "all" the benefits of being a couple! Smoking-hot Grey is definitely fling material, but Charlotte knows that's all it can ever be.... Isn't it?

To win, comment with the phrase "I want to stow away in your luggage & go to conference next year!"

I Heart NYC

Today is the last day of National Conference. I'm having lunch with my editor today. The RITAs are tonight. Most people will be packing up and flying out tomorrow. Instigator and I are hanging around until Sunday to get in a little siteseeing. I anticipate pounding through the Metropolitan Museum of Art, seeing Central Park and catching a show tonight, if we can manage it all.


I love New York. July is not my optimum visiting time, but conference is when it is. I've been there at Christmas, which I think is the best. I've been there in the spring, which is still quite chilly, but without the benefit of Christmas decorations. I have yet to go in the fall, but I really want to see Central Park with all the leaves changing. One day.


The book I just sold is set in Manhattan and I've found I've used a lot of my personal experiences to come up with things for my characters to see and do. When I'm there this time, I hope to capture a couple choice memories to put on my website when the book is published (like me in the My Little Pony car at Toys R Us in Times Square) but I also want to find some new things. If this book does well, then follow on books will be in NYC too and I don't want to run out of options. Of course, this requires me to do more than eat off the hot dog carts and hang out in the hotel bar. I need to get out there, for sure.

Have you been to NYC? What are your favorite things to see and do in the city? If not, when you travel, do you have any must-do activities? Maybe trying a new food or seeing a museum?
SP

I Heart New York

By now conference is in full swing and I'm likely sleep deprived. I'm not sure how it happened, but somehow in the last few weeks my days have become completely booked. This was supposed to be an easy conference but...not so much.

While I'm very excited to see my editor and agent (I only see them once a year), I have to admit that I'm looking forward to something more this year. Thanks to the wonderful Barbara Vey at Beyond Her Book, I'm attending a taping of the Colbert Report.

I'm a huge Stephen Colbert fan! And have been since his days on the Daily Show. I watch the show every night and have to admit that all of my political news comes from Comedy Central. I know I should probably feel guilty about that but I don't. I can't wait to report on how the taping went when we get back.

In the meantime, is there a show that you've always wanted to visit? A celebrity you've always wanted to meet? Who would you hope to run into on the streets of NY?

Instigator

P.S. PM's winner from yesterday's game is Renee. Send your full name and snail mail info to her to claim your prize.

And I'm not in the city that never sleeps

It's quiet around the Playground this week because PC, Insti and SP are all in New York City attending the RWA conference. It didn't work out for me to go this year, and while I'm okay with not being there, I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss it. The conference is a chance to learn and rub elbows with industry professionals. It's also a chance to see writing friends who live all over the world. I figured out once that the sun hardly sets on my circle of romance writing friends.

Next year's conference will be in Anaheim, California, and I'm sure hoping to be there.

So since it's so quiet here, I thought we could play a game -- a romance author name game.

I'll name a romance author and the next person names one whose first name begins with the last letter of the previous name.

Example: I name Nora Roberts. The next person names Sharon Sala.

Now it's your turn. You must name a romance author whose first name starts with "A."

Let's see how long we can keep this going.

And one randomly selected commenter will win a book from my stash. :-)

Ready, set, go!

Conference Tips and Tidbits

Yep, my life has been taken over by preparations for RWA. I'm so not ready. But I thought I'd take a few minutes to pass along some of the tips and tricks that I've gleaned from several years of conference trips.

Comfy Shoes - Yes, I realize this probably seems counter intuitive - especially if you glance at the shoes that will adorn my feet at conference. I don't necessarily advocate comfy shoes all the time, but you definitely need to take a pair with you just in case. PC learned this lesson the hard way when she injured her knee one year and hadn't thought to bring anything flat. I have several pair of five inch heels in my bag, but I also have some flip flops and flat dress shoes in case there's a day where my vanity just can't trump the pain.

First Aide, Band-Aide Stick and Gel Shoe Pads - You can never have too many band-aides or blister pads. I also highly recommend investing in this little stick that Band-Aide makes that you rub on your heels so your shoes don't give you blisters. I've found it also works wonders at preventing chaffing on your thighs if you happen to have a pair of short shorts and are heading out into a steamy New York day. Ditto for those gel pads that go in the ball of your shoe. They can make the difference between sheer torture and looking effortlessly fabulous.

Nap - No, I'm not kidding. I realize that we're not in kindergarten, but conference tends to involve late nights followed by early mornings. If you run non-stop you will hit a wall the last day. Your brain will stop absorbing information and you will become useless. A bad situation if you have a pitch or workshop presentation ahead of you.

Don't Forget the Bar - Even if you're not a drinker, the bar has many functions. Not only is a great (usually centrally located) meeting place, but inevitably you will run into someone you've always wanted to meet. Networking is one of the most important functions you'll do at conference and the bar is a great place to get pulled into a conversation only to discover that your dream editor is sitting across the table from you sipping a drink and sharing stories about her dog.

Those are my top conference tips. Anyone else have others they'd like to share?

And I'd like to take this time to shamelessly plug my workshop with Smarty Pants, Rhonda Nelson and Vicki Lewis Thompson scheduled for 4:30 on Thursday. If you come well give you the secret handshake...and if SP's efforts at organizing us have worked we might also talk about Voice.

Instigator

P.S. robertsonreads is the winner from yesterday's blog. Please email your name and address to Playground Monitor to claim your prize.

The Comprehensive, Must-Have, Magical, Mystical, Packing List Strikes Back

It's June and RWA Nationals is early this year. Not ready? Neither am I. My whole world is off kilter and my recent sale has made me that much more aware how unprepared I am. I've barely had time to consider things like "What am I going to wear?" and "How many shoes can I cram into this bag without going over the weight limit?" In honor of this important event, the Comprehensive, Must-Have, Magical, Mystical, Packing List has returned. It's tradition now and a great place to start building your own list if you don't have one already.

Mine is broken into sections, starting with what I'm wearing on the plane. These are usually items that are too bulky to pack and comfortable for travel. Jeans, a sweater and sneakers are must haves in my book and I've racked up my share of airline miles in them. Planes get cold and I've been so happy to have my sweater instead of wearing shorts and flip flops like all the other tourists. Plus, when they change your gate for the 10th time or your plane is late and you have 5 minutes to make your connection, sneakers are a godsend.

Wear on Plane :

• Shirt


• Jeans


• Sweater


• Sneakers (or slip-ons for walking to make getting them on and off in security easier)


• Socks

Then I have the list of what goes in my backpack. I like backpacks because my hands are free, but this could be your carry on, laptop, your toiletry bag...whatever. Just make sure these items are in a bag you physically have custody of at all times. Must have stuff. You don't want it to end up in DC while you're waiting at the luggage carousel at LaGuardia.

Backpack :

• Plane Itinerary / Ticket


• Camera & Battery Charger


• Cell Phone & Charger


• 1 extra pair of panties & socks (just in case)


• Book or e-Reader of choice (& charger) to read on the plane


• ID and/or Passport (I keep this and some cash in an easily accessible pocket - one that zips for security - for the 20 times I have to get it out to travel. This is mainly because of the next item.)


• Purse (I transition to a smaller purse and stuff it inside my backpack so I have less to carry. This makes it harder to get to, so I take a few essentials out for the day. Even though you won't need your keys, be sure to carry them with you as well so you have them when you get home.)


• Snacks & An Empty Water Bottle (They don't feed you on planes anymore, so this is a MUST. Its also good to have once you get to Nationals so you have something to eat aside from the overpriced hotel food. As for the water bottle, you can refill it as you travel, but it must be empty to get through airport security.)


• Prescription Medication (Never, ever check your pills with your luggage.)


• Travel Alarm Clock (If you can't set your cell phone, and you can, I'm pretty sure)


• Mini flashlight


• Business Cards


• Presentation Materials and/or laptop (I'm doing a workshop this year, so anything I need is staying on my person.)

Next is what goes in my toiletry bag. Mine is actually a small bag that fits inside my luggage, which is good considering all the charges for extra pieces these days. If you're carrying this on, remember all liquids, gels and aerosols must be smaller than 3 ounces and must all fit within a clear, one quart ziplock bag. You have to pull this out and run it through the security x-ray separately. If you do check the bag, I still recommend putting liquids inside a ziploc bag in case a bottle comes open and leaks all over your clothes.

Toiletry Bag :

• Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss & Mouthwash


• Deodorant


• Hairbrush


• Clips/Bands/Barrettes


• Shampoo & Conditioner (if you can use the hotel provided ones, ok, but my hair is too picky)


• Lotion and Soap (I will use the hotel provided stuff, but if you can't, pack your own)


• Hair Products - Gel, Hairspray, Mousse, Detangler


• Hair Electronics - blow dryers, curling iron, flat iron, etc. (coordinate w/ roommates to cut down on unnecessary appliances)


• Makeup, brushes, cotton applicators, good mirror, tweezers


• Moisturizer w/ SPF (you might also take outright sunblock if you'll be outside a lot)


• Razor & Shaving gel


• Feminine Hygiene (I always take an emergency stash just in case.)


• OTC Meds - Pain Reliever, Antacids, Stomach Pills


• Clear and colored nail polish & file for manicure fixes and hosiery runs


• First Aid Kit & Extra bandaids (if you have to ask, you haven't read this blog for very long)


• Mini Sewing Kit


• Mini bottle of Downy Wrinkle Release Spray & Febreze


• Bandaid Friction Block

Luggage :

• Another copy of your flight itinerary in case your bag loses its ID tag


• Panties x # of days, plus one or two if you're going siteseeing and might get sweaty


• Sport or Trouser Socks x # of days needed


• 1 pair pantyhose (I hate them, but its good to carry one pair JIC. I have a pair of shoes that just rubs something fierce without them, but are super comfortable otherwise)


• Regular bras & dress bras (as needed for formals, etc)


• Spanx (the ever-so important foundation garment) & slips as needed


• Casual tops x # of siteseeing/travel days


• 1 pair jeans (if you aren't doing a lot of tourist stuff, this might not be necessary, especially as I'm wearing a pair on the plane)


• Seasonal Jacket, etc, as needed (depends on where you're going, as SFO was cold, NYC is NOT)


• Pajamas (I don't know how many times I stress over every outfit, then forget PJs)


• Daytime Outfit Components (see breakdown below)


• Party Outfits as needed for Ritas, etc.


• Swimsuit, if you think you might manage to make it to the spa at some point


• Badge Lanyard with conference and chapter pins


• Shoes - At a minimum, 2 pairs of comfortable casual shoes or sandals, 1 or 2 dress pairs for formals, maybe some slippers or flip flops if you're inclined to swim or visit the spa. If you coordinate your outfit to a color scheme, you can cut down to less. I do not recommend wearing the same shoes every day, even if it matches. I find even the most comfortable pair will start to rub and make your feet sore if you wear them over and over. You will do a lot of walking.


• Jewelry - Make sure you know what you're wearing with each piece and put them all together in a bag with tissue if you don't have a jewelry travel case.

Finally, to determine my outfits, I use a daily breakdown. I try to bring some neutral pieces like black capris or a skirt that I can use a couple times. Microfiber is awesome - it doesn't wrinkle and it takes up almost no space in your bag. I also advocate the inclusion of one extra outfit that lies somewhere between your workshop attire and your formal in case you get an impromptu invite to a dinner or a party someplace nice. Here's my breakdown based on my typical activities... (note conference is a day off this year, so its all wonky). This year, I'm coordinating everything to match my pink "First Sale" ribbon. :)

• Tuesday - black microfiber skirt, pink top, black sandals, pink jewelry


• Wednesday - black capris, blue microfiber top, black sandals, blue jewelry


• Wednesday Night - eHQN PJ party attire, flip flops/slippers


• Thursday - black microfiber skirt, purple microfiber top, black sweater, black heels, purple jewelry


• Thursday Night - black formal, sale shoes, black/silver jewelry


• Friday - black capris, pink satin top, black sandals, pink jewelry


• Friday Night - black and pink formal, pink heels, pink jewelry


• Saturday - t-shirt, jeans, etc. for flight home (add days as needed if you're coming early or staying late to sitesee)


• Pitch Outfit - if you are pitching, bring the outfit that makes you feel your best if its not already one of the ensembles you're wearing


• Extra Outfit - a fabu just in case outfit that you can wear with the shoes and jewelry you're already planning to bring

Hope The Comprehensive, Must-Have, Magical, Mystical, Packing List helps make planning for the big trip a little easier for you. Have I missed anything? What's on your must pack list?

SP

The winner of Shana Smith's guest blog giveaway is Cynthia because that's the name of the heroine in my first book. Sorta. Makes sense when you read it. Cynthia, please send your snail mail info to me at smartypants@writingplayground.com to claim your prize!

The Good, the Bad & the Ugly

The Good:

This week I found out that my next Blazes will be released in Feb, March & April 2012. They are connected books all set at an adults only resort on a secluded Caribbean island. We're still hammering out individual titles, but the series is titled Island Nights. I can't wait to share these stories with y'all! I've turned in book 2, am almost finished with book 1 and just started writing book 3 today. I have to say that these characters rock! I'm definitely in the loving it stage with book 3.

Which brings me to the Bad:

I'm in the middle of revisions for book 1. It happens with every book. There's a moment where I hate it, no matter how much I loved it when I started. I'm definitely there. That strong emotion is usually accompanied by the thought that I suck and will never be able to get what I see in my head down onto the page with any amount of skill. I've come to realize that this too is part of my process. Don't worry, I'll love it again - definitely when I hold the finished product in my hands, but probably after my wonderful editor gives me notes and I get to work to make it the best it can possibly be.

And that leaves us with the Ugly:

My preparations for conference. I'm leaving in less than two weeks and I'm not ready. I started to pull together my schedule and realized that somehow I'm completely booked. This was supposed to be an easy conference. No pitch appointments. Only one workshop to give. Meetings with my agent and editors aren't work but something I look forward to. I only get to see them face-to-face once a year so I really enjoy catching up and just chatting over a cup of coffee. But I've discovered that leaves little time for anything else - like attending workshops, site-seeing or catching a show. So, today I came to the realization that I'm going to be running for six days straight. I should be used to it, but I'm always surprised when I can't get it all in.

So, do you have your own good, bad and/or ugly?

Instigator

Just Keep Swimming

So, I'm going to break with this week's theme and talk about something a little more upbeat. This year's conference was a little weird for me. A little conference, a little Harry Potter, a little Disney, a lot of foot pain and an overabundance on sweatiness. I may never set foot in Florida in July again, if I can help it. And yet, despite all that, I was determined to make the most of the trip.

While visiting Epcot, we rode on the Finding Nemo ride in the Living Seas. The ride is cute, you sit in a big clamshell and go through watching the characters dance around amongst the coral, then they even manage to project the characters into a tank with real fish so it looks like they're swimming around with the animals. Whether you're a seven year old girl or a sweaty thirty-something, you have to appreciate the 5 minutes of air conditioned darkness, and of course, the chance to enjoy a few of my favorite characters, including Dory.

I love Dory. Way back in the day, I remember Ellen Degeneres' stand up routine where she talked about being a goldfish with short term memory problems. It was hysterical. Seeing it translate into a character on screen is even better. But even a silly fish who can't manage to keep up with much more than her own name can pass on wisdom. At one point in the movie, Marlin is upset because he thinks he may never find his missing son, Nemo. Dory makes this suggestion...

Hey, Mr. Grump Gills!
You know what you gotta do when life gets you down?
Just keep swimming
Just keep swimming
Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming!

It's a simple message. A silly one, even as she sings it and darts around in the ocean. But even this can be applied to life and writing.

I've been at this a while. There's big ups, big downs and a lot of mediocre dead space in between. But in the end, if you want to succeed, you've gotta keep swimming. (Singing optional.)

What's your favorite Disney cartoon? Any nuggets of wisdom you've gathered from them that you can share?

SP

Huntsville Area Book Signing
If you live in northern Alabama, one of our fabulous Mavens--Beverly Barton--is having a reading and signing of her new book Don't Cry at the Books-a-Million at 1001 Memorial Parkway in Huntsville, AL, tomorrow Saturday, August 21, from 7-9pm. Hope we see you there!

Free Book Friday (Conference Edition)

I came back from conference with SO MANY BOOKS this year! I would've gone over my weight limit if Angel and I hadn't gone together on a second bag full of books. 29 pounds worth, to be exact, plus the 12 pound increase in my regular luggage. There's stacks on my desk and I still need to get the ones at Angel's house. This bodes well for the future of Free Book Friday!

To start into our new stash, I'm going to give away two books by our awards luncheon speaker Jayne Ann Krentz (who also, I recently learned, writes as Amanda Quick and Jayne Castle. I had no idea.) Anyway, she offered some great advice about writing, about not self-sabotaging, and we each got two of her Arcane Society books, which I'm passing along to you.

Running Hot by Jayne Ann Krentz

A heroine who can see dark energy flashes in a villain's aura and a hero who can squelch villainous thoughts before they're put into action go to paradise to find a murderer, but find love, sex and a nest of drug-enhanced evildoers instead in Krentz's latest Arcane Society novel. Librarian Grace Renquist and ex-cop-turned-bartender Luther Malone, both members of the centuries-old Arcane Society, join forces when the psychic investigative agency Jones & Jones hires Grace, with Luther as her bodyguard, to find a killer in Hawaii. Luther quickly realizes Grace is not your normal paranormal, but their hot romance is put on hold as they learn that Nightshade, drug-fueled supernatural baddies, are after the same murderer—as is the lethal psychic hunter La Sirène, an opera diva with a killer voice.

The Perfect Poison by Amanda Quick

If Lucinda Bromley doesn’t discover who stole her fern, she could end up being charged with murder. Lucinda frequently used her unusual psychic gift to discern death by poisoning to help the London police, but when a nobleman is poisoned by a compound containing elements of a rare fern, one that can only be found in her conservatory, Lucinda knows she better act quickly. To help her find the real murderer, she hires Caleb Jones, a psychical investigator. Believing there is a connection between Lucinda’s fern thief and a deadly dangerous secret society, Caleb agrees to take the case, but he never expected to become so distracted by his new partner in detection or to find himself flummoxed on so many fronts. New York Times best-seller Quick delivers another fascinating addition to her original and spellbinding Victorian-era series about the Arcane Society, a 200-year-old secret organization founded by an alchemist and devoted to paranormal research.

Jayne Ann Krentz has lots of personalities. I do too! I'm me, I'm Alexandra Frost, I'm Smarty Pants... so many sides to one person. To enter to win this month, comment with the phrase "All my personalities would love to win this book!" and tell us about any run-ins you've had with the luggage Gestapos at the airport.

SP

Oh, Wait...

It's Thursday? While conference was FANTASTIC, it has definitely messed up my internal clock. I've been a day off all week. Add to this (and the fact that I hit the 'conference wall' yesterday) that the girls start school on Monday and I still have to buy supplies, backpacks, lunch boxes, new shoes and clothes for them both. I have 3 deadlines in the next 2 weeks - and Art Fact Sheet, AAs for Caught Off Guard and revisions for my April book. My brain is already fried and I'm trying to force it through the ringer just a little bit more.

So, to save what little brainpower I can manage to scrape together today, I'm offering a chance to win some of the goodies I brought home from conference. And I have a ton. Seriously. I bought a new suitcase and upgraded to first class in order to get 2 free checked bags.

So, tell me what's happening in your life and I'll enter you in a chance to win a stack of books (including mine :-)).

Instigator

Student-Teacher Conference

I don't have cover models or agents or editors or fabu critique partners to blog about today, but I do have something equally as wonderful -- my former students.

Twice a year I teach an online class on how to write for the confessions and romance magazines. I've been doing this for a couple years now so I have quite a few folks who've taken my class.

Many, like me, also belong to RWA and write novel-length fiction, using the money they make from selling to the Trues to bankroll their RWA membership and conference fees.

Last week I had the pleasure of meeting several of my former students. Most of them recognized my name from my badge and came running over to introduce themselves and tell me how much they'd enjoyed the class and how it had helped them to sell to the magazines. One woman even promoted my class to another woman sitting at her table at the Nora Roberts keynote lunch.

That, my friends, is validation. Recognition. Appreciation. It's the pat on the back I've needed after the kick in the teeth I've taken over the last year. But even without the teeth kicking part, knowing you've made a difference in someone's life and helped them achieve their goals is a real boost. And meeting these women made this a very special conference for me.

It was also special because I did my first ever face-to-face pitch to an editor. She was so nice and reminded me to breathe when I sat down. "No one is allowed to pass out during a pitch to me," she said. That helped break the ice and after a couple deep breaths (I'm a stickler for doing what people tell me to do), I started into my pitch.

Silence. And panic on my part.

Then she asked me a question. And oh my goodness, I was able to answer without babbling, drooling or making a general a$$ of myself. She asked me what line I thought my book might fit, and I told her I thought it would work quite nicely for the line for which she's the senior editor and I gave her reasons why.

More silence. And more panic.

"I'd like you to send me a synopsis and three chapters," she said. She added that she likes a detailed synopsis, so in addition to polishing the three chapters, I am going to have to put my current synopsis on steroids and build it up.

All this, however, will not take place until at least next week because remember that foot problem I blogged about a while back? I'm having surgery tomorrow to correct the situation in my right foot. I'll be in a drug-induced haze for a few days, propped on the sofa or the recliner with my foot raised above the level of my heart to keep the pain level down. I'll either be reading the two Rita nominated books I bought Monday or the historical set at Biltmore Estate or watching one of the mountain of DVDs a friend is loaning me. A wonderful new friend from my divorce recovery group (she's the one with all the movies) is accompanying me to the Surgery Center, bringing me home and staying as long as I need her. And the Playfriends have told me to call on them if I need anything. I am beyond blessed with terrific friends.

So think about me at 7 AM CDT tomorrow when my foot goes under the knife. And as soon as possible, I'll repeat the process on the other foot. Am I a glutton for punishment or what???

And just so you'll know I really WAS at the conference, here are a few photos (and a few is all I have because I just didn't take that many).

Our hotel. Pretty fancy digs, huh?

Me and my BFF Nora Roberts. Okay, so she's not my BFF but she IS an amazing woman and her "Chat with Nora Roberts" workshop is one I'd recommend to anyone.

Fellow "Trues" writer Dee Gattrell.

Now this *is* my BFF -- Rocki St. Claire -- and we're all decked out in our awards night wear.

I just don't think you've lived til you've had a driver meet you with your name on a board. I felt so special. And he was a great driver too!

Conference memories and SQUEEs!!!!

I’m back from the RWA conference and, dear dog, I am tired. But it was a FABULOUS conference!! So fabulous I don’t know where to begin.

I loved having our annual Playground breakfast with Barbara Vey of Publisher’s Weekly. I spent a little time with Faygie Levy from RT Bookreviews and she’s just a doll! I also got to have coffee with editor Whitney Ross from TOR (no, I’m not switching genres; she’s someone I’ve been corresponding with online and wanted to meet face to face), and spent some quality time with my fellow Presents authors (they’re all really lovely people!). I got the honor of introducing two of my favorite authors to each other (Carole Mortimer and Beverly Barton), and bonding with my fabu CP. It was an action-packed few days, and I’m totally beat, yet completely energized as well. But, of all the wonderful, wonderful moments at Conference, two stand out, and those are the ones I want to share.

Wednesday night, Readers for Life Literacy Signing: Being in a room full of the biggest names in Romancelandia can be a little soul-destroying. Folks don’t like to make eye contact (lest they feel obligated to buy your book), and seeing the line for another author stretch past your table into the hall can drive home your place on the food chain in no uncertain terms. But it was an amazing time! I sold a few books, sure, but this was the first time folks came to find *me* because they were fans. They’d read my books and enjoyed them. They wanted to meet me and tell me. Wanted to take pictures and talk about the characters. WOW! Let me tell you, NOTHING makes me love my job more than that. I wanted to hug them, buy them drinks and bring them home with me, but didn’t want to scare them. Hearing from a reader is the high point of my day – any day – but meeting them in person? Knowing that out of the 500 other authors they could be talking to right now they chose to come see me? I was floored, thrilled and honored. At that moment, I didn’t think the conference could get any better.

But I was wrong…

Thursday night, OKRWA’s National Readers’ Choice Award reception/ceremony. I was totally and completely thrilled to simply final in this contest – much less double final – and had no expectation of winning. I was really just there to support Rhonda Nelson, who also finaled in the Short Contemporary category and enjoy the fact I was a finalist. When Rhonda took home the award for Best Short Contemporary I was THRILLED, honestly, thrilled. Not even a moment of disappointment for myself.

But the night got even better when they announced The Secret Mistress Arrangement had won Best First Book! OMG!!!! OMG!!!!! There aren’t enough exclamation points to describe the excitement! I was so excited, I have no conscious memory of my acceptance speech.

This is my lovely trophy, which will now grace my bookshelf.

I also got lovely bling:But all stories have a Problem Child twist, and here’s the embarrassing story to go with my wonderful moment in the sun…

As soon as they had everyone sit down for the awards bit to start, I realized I should have visited the Ladies' Room first. I really needed to pee. But, I couldn’t leave. First, I didn’t know what order they’d be doing the awards in and didn’t want to miss my categories, and second, it would be rude to walk out during someone else’s big moment. They had to be just as excited as I was, and they deserved to have my attention.

But it wasn’t easy. You know what it’s like when you have to pee and that’s all you can really think about and thinking about it only makes it worse. It didn’t help that Rhonda and Smarty Pants found my condition amusing. By the time they got to Best First Book – the last category – I thought I was going to die. Or embarrass myself.

This may also explain why I have little memory of my speech.

I accepted, left the stage, almost threw my trophy at SP, and ran from the room. I can’t imagine what people thought during my immediate flight. Thankfully, the bathroom was close by.

So, the realization I was a NRCA winner – that lovely, blissful, yay me moment – came while I was sitting on the toilet.

There’s a memory I’ll cherish.

But I will also cherish this moment.
Upon my return from my dash to the Ladies’ Room, I got to accept everyone’s good wishes and get this photo. Rhonda Nelson and I with our lovely trophies as we prove – again – that Southern girls ROCK. Because if you can’t share a moment like this with a good friend, then it’s a lonely moment indeed.

So thank you OKRWA, the judges, the readers, and my editors for making that moment possible. I’m still just tickled and honored in ways you don’t know.

So, we can party in the comments. Or you can tease me. Or you can tell me about a moment in the sun for you that was a little twisted. But tell me if you haven’t read TSMA, because to celebrate this awesome thing, I’ll be giving away a copy of this Award-Winning book. (Oh, that was so cool to type…)

PC

Pitching a Fit

Today, I woke up nauseated. No, not from too many roller coasters or too many drinks. It's because I have pitches this morning. Back to back pitches. Like ripping off a band-aid, I guess I should be pleased its relatively early (10:20 and 10:50 AM) and will be over quickly. Of course, that will just leave me time to worry about my workshops tomorrow. :)

I've worked on my pitch ad nauseum. I'm pitching the same book to both an editor and an agent. Hoping my quirk will catch their eye. I've reviewed Instigator's Pits of Pitching Hell article. Now all I can do is get dressed and wait in the lobby with all the other high strung people.

Here's a couple tips I have for pitching:

1) Don't arrive too early. You don't want to be late, by any means, but arrive exactly 15 minutes ahead of your appointment as instructed. If you're nervous about being late, go almost to the area, but not inside. Inside the waiting area is worse than the lobby of the free clinic. Everyone is panicky. Everyone is nervous. The energy in there is awful. The longer you sit the more you'll absorb. Just arrive 15 minutes ahead, check in, get a seat and review your pitch cards. Don't let it all get to you.

2) See if anyone you know has a pitch around the same time. I think Angel or her sister have a pitch right around mine. We can sit in the waiting area together and chat. It helps the nerves and if you wait for eachother after the pitches, you can share your good news after its done.

3) Schedule yourself some free time before and after the pitch. Mine is early, so I've pretty much written off going to any workshops before. And right after, I'm going to either go back to my room and collapse on the bed in an adrenelin crash, or I'm going straight to the bar. (Yes, I know it will be 11AM.) Don't rush out of a workshop, pitch, then run to the next event. Give your brain some space.

4) Remember you've got 10 whole minutes. They will manage to crawl by and fly by all at once. My point is that you don't have to shake hands and immediately launch into your spiel. Introduce yourself. Thank her for seeing you. Ask how her conference is going. Tell her a little about yourself and your writing. Then go ahead with your pitch. Let her ask questions. When the business is wrapped up, if there's still time left, thank her again, and gift her with the extra two minutes to do whatever she needs to before the next person comes. Being courteous and friendly will help her remember you.

5) It's just a pitch. The editor knows you're a writer, not a public speaker. She knows the pitch could be great and the book could be awful. She also knows an awful pitch could still mean a good book. Do your best, but remember, in the end, its the product you send her that will make or break the book. You could have a stellar pitch that makes them leap for joy and request the full, but if it shows up and its obvious you've spent more time on the pitch than the manuscript, you've got trouble. Once you get home from conference, you really need to focus. If you haven't already, get that partial or full to shine. That, more than anything you say or do (short of vomiting on the editor's shoes) will make you memorable and get that project some forward momentum.

Ok, hope that helps everyone. I need to take my own advice and chill out for a while. I'll post later with my results. If you're pitching today or tomorrow, share your good news and we can all squeee together!

SP

We Have Liftoff!

The past two weeks we've given you a "Countdown to Conference" with tips on preparing for and surviving the RWA National Conference.

Today, the clock has counted down, we gone through the mandatory holds at various intervals and we're ready for liftoff.

I'm packed. I have a new manicure and pedicure. I've checked in online for my flight. My passport, ticket information and transportation reservation are in my backpack. I'm riding to the airport with several of the Playfriends and Angel's sister.

I'm ready (I think) for my editor pitch. Think of me at 4:30 Eastern time on Friday. I've picked out the workshops I want to attend, though that's always up for negotiation. I have some times scheduled to get with friends for drinks or coffee (I'll be having my usual virgin version of some sort of margarita or daiquiri). I have writing friends I see once a year at this conference and I so look forward to the social aspects of the trip. And after the year I've had, I need to refill the well and be amidst kindred writing souls and maybe even cry into a virgin margarita or two.

PC will have her netbook and Instigator will have her laptop so we'll try to pop in during the week and keep you updated on things (like the results of the National Readers' Choice Awards). You'll be able to follow the Golden Heart and Rita ceremony on the RWA website. They'll be updating real-time with results.

If we don't post often, or even at all, it isn't that we don't love all of you. We're out there learning new things, meeting new folks to interview and have as guest bloggers and collecting books and goodies to give away as prizes over the next year.

Stay tuned next week because we'll be reporting back on the conference. We have a pretty large contingent from Heart of Dixie attending and many of them have blogs too. It's always fun to read about other people's experiences.

Stay cool! I'll see you when I return if not before.

Craziness Has Ensued!

While I know that everyone else is going about their daily lives in a normal manner, I must confess that mine is focused around one simple activity right now: obsessing over my upcoming trip to RWA National Conference in Orlando. But it isn’t just the conference itself that has me in a tizzy. I have much more to worry about than that!

1. My plane leaves on Wednesday!
This might not seem like a big deal to anyone else (after all, I still have 2 days before I have to actually enter an airport), but since I’m afraid of flying, I start to worry about it way ahead of time. More experience flying has taught me some ways of calming these fears, but it still niggles in the back of my mind. And since I usually only fly once a year, I have to remind myself of these strategies with more frequency than if I flew all the time and they became second nature to me.

2. I have to pack!
Yep, I sure do and though I prefer not to be up packing at midnight the night before I leave, chances are, that’s where you’ll find me. But I try to plan ahead. I’ve been working on my packing list a little at a time for over a week (thanks, SP!), I’ve tried on clothes when I had time, and done copious amounts of laundry. Speaking of which…

3. Laundry needs to be done!
Don’t you hate it when you get all the colored clothes washed, then find that one light blue shirt that you need… still dirty?!?! Now what will I wash it with? Do I have time for another load? Is it worth the hassle? Sigh. If bosses in Corporate America only acknowledged the organizational skills it takes to wash and pack clothing for a trip, it would be on my resume in bold letters.

But it isn’t just my laundry that needs to be done. I try to get everyone else’s washed along with mine, because I don’t like to leave my family behind with more tasks than absolutely necessary. Which leads me to…

4. Do we have enough frozen dinners?
If you’ve been reading long enough, you’ll recognize the control freak in me rearing its ugly head. Couple that with my particular psychosis and the results sound like this, “I feel guilty about being gone for a week and leaving other people to deal with my (jobs, chores, tasks, etc), so I need to do as much as possible before I leave to make it as easy as possible for that person while I’m gone…” Not pretty, I know, but if stocking the freezer with frozen foods, leaving behind lists, and washing everyone’s laundry before I go makes me feel better about stepping onto that plane, then that’s what I’ll do. (Don’t hate me because I’m obsessive.) ;) Unfortunately, it also makes my To Do list double, so yes, I stress over time too.

5. Will everything fit in my suitcase?
Back to packing for a moment… do you know how hard it is to get all your conference stuff into a suitcase at less than 50 pounds? I’d really like to head down there with only one suitcase and a carry on, though I know I’ll come back with an extra duffle bag. But at $30 a pop, I’m hoping to take it down for less. But when you end up packing at midnight…

Okay, I think that’s enough obsessiveness for today. So tell us, what are you obsessing about these days? What thing do you always tell yourself you won’t do before a trip (like pack at midnight) that you always end up doing?

Angel

Special Opportunities at RWA in Orlando

If you're unpublished and headed to the RWA Conference next week, here are two opportunities you might want to take advantage of:

Open House for Unpublished Authors
Thursday, 7/29, 3-4 pm
Harlequin Hospitality Suite, Europe 8

If you're interested in writing for one of the Harlequin/Mills & Boon lines edited out of London (Historical, Presents, Romance, Medical, Modern Heat), you can come meet the M&B editors in an informal setting. Linda Fildew, Joanne Grant, and Jenny Hutton will be there (with their fabulous accents!) and they're very friendly. It's a great chance to meet and greet and maybe ask a few questions.

Want to tell Brenda Chin (Harlequin Blaze) about your book?

PC and SP are doing a workshop with Brenda Chin on Saturday, 7/31, 2-3 pm in the Americas Seminar Room titled, It's For Your Own Good: What You Can Learn From Rejection (from two authors and the editor who rejected them both).

Brenda will give attendees the opportunity to write a short pitch for their book and hand it in. It's a great opportunity to "pitch" without the scary appointment and submit without landing in the slush pile. I know of several people who have gotten requests through this process, and Brenda has even bought books pitched this way. It's a great opportunity for aspiring Blaze authors.

It's also going to be a fabulous workshop... :-)



Speaking of fabulous workshops, here are a couple of others that might interest you...


Three Steps to a Highly Hot Hero (Saturday, 7/31, 8.30-9.30 am)

Speakers: Rhonda Nelson, Kira Sinclair, and Vicki Lewis Thompson

Three best-selling authors share their secrets on how to create a hot hero for every genre.


I've Got a Fever: Taking Sexual Tension from Lukewarm to Hot (Saturday, 7/31, 3.15-4.15pm)

Speakers: Lynn Raye Harris and Kira Sinclair

Two Harlequin authors demonstrate how to amp up the sexual tension in your manuscript to give it that memorable quality that keeps readers turning pages to find out what happens next.

Lay of the Land...or World, Rather

We've covered a lot of the conference basics, so today I'm going to tackle a topic specific to this trip - WE'RE AT DISNEY WORLD!! Yay! I love the House of Mouse. I can't help it. And yes, I will admit, it makes it very difficult to focus on conference knowing what's right outside the doors. Workshop... Magic Kingdom? Tough choices.

As a seasoned Disney-a-holic, I thought I'd share some tips you might find handy about our hotel specifically and about the World as a whole. If you can sneak some time away to sitesee, great, if not, there's still some interesting stuff right in our hotel.

The Hotels

Ok, to start... The Dolphin and Swan Resorts. This is where the conference is taking place. From what I've heard, you may be staying in either resort, but all the conference activities will be in the Dolphin. There's a short covered walkway connecting the two.

Facts to know - check in is at 3PM and checkout is at 11AM. The rate you pay includes a $10 'resort charge' that will provide access to the fitness center, unlimited high-speed internet in the rooms, up to 60 minutes free local, toll free and credit card access calls, 2 bottles of water daily, and 20 minutes of domestic long distance per day. I'm not sure if the internet is wireless or what the availability is in common areas.

There's a fabulous 3 acre pool complex with white sand beaches, waterslides and swan boats. There's also the Mandara spa if you need a little pampering.

Dining

In the two hotels are several restaurants. Some require reservations and you'd do well to get them in advance. Unlike a lot of conference hotels, its hard to crash a Disney restaurant with a large party.

At the Swan:

• Il Mulino New York Trattoria (Italian, reservations required)


• Kimono's (Sushi Bar & Karaoke, reservations required)


• Garden Grove (Casual Buffet, with Characters at breakfast)


• Splash Grill and Deli (Hamburgers, etc.)

At the Dolphin:

• Todd English's bluezoo Restaurant (seafood, reservations required)


• Shula's Steak House (steak, reservations required)


• Picabu (cafeteria/convenience store)


• The Fountain (50's diner)


• Fresh Mediterranean Market (breakfast and lunch pick up)

Nearby are also the Yacht/Beach Club and Boardwalk resorts. The Boardwalk features an Atlantic City style area with more restaurants and shopping. You can also catch one of the buses to Downtown Disney. A shopping and dining Mecca, you can buy nearly anything you could possibly want, Disney related, without having to step foot in a park.

In addition to resorts, the Swan and Dolphin are situated between Hollywood Studios and Epcot. Both are within walking distance and you can also ride the boat launch across the lagoon. The closest entrance for Epcot takes you in the secret backdoor of the park, landing you smack in between the UK and France - perfect to pick up a pastry and a pint. Once you get inside Epcot, the dining options are limitless - Italian, German, Moroccan, Japanese, Mexican, Chinese... of course, this will require you to have park tickets, so let's talk about that, too.

Tickets

Online tickets were available at a discount for a limited time online. Since conference is so close, these are no longer available. You can, however, call 407-566-5600 and order them over the phone. They will be available for will call at any park or ticketing area. You'll need the code off your hotel room confirmation to order, but you'll receive a 10% discount and also be able to purchase "After 2" or "After 4" tickets you can't get anywhere else. Spur of the moment, you can simply buy tickets at any park entrance, and I believe at the Dolphin resort as well. Here's the prices, hold your breath:

Magic Your Way Tickets (1 park per day)

• 1 day pass - $79


• 2 day pass - $156


• 3 day pass - $219

Park Hopper Tickets (allows you to go in and out of as many parks as you choose, per day)

• 1 day pass - $131


• 2 day pass - $208


• 3 day pass - $271

As a guest in one of the Disney resorts, you'll also be eligible for Extra Magic Hours. These vary by day, but typically one park will open 1 hour early or close 3 hours late each day exclusively for resort guests. Plan your days accordingly. I'm pretty sure midnight at Magic Kingdom will be a lot more comfortable than noon.

Parks

Magic Kingdom - the classic. If you want to relive your childhood, this is the place. See Cinderella's Castle, ride the teacups and the recently revamped Space Mountain, eat ice cream shaped like Mickey's head and get a hug from a real life Prince Charming. Other points of interest include Pirates of the Carribbean including an animatronic Johnny Depp and the Main Street Electrical Parade on loan from Disneyland for just this summer.

Epcot - the foodie paradise. I've never really been able to figure out Epcot. The front is this space age place with technological learning experiences and heart pounding rides like Test Track and Soarin'. Then, in the back is a whirlwhind world tour. Do they go together? Not really. Do I care? Nope. Epcot is all about the food for me. I can grab a pint of cider in the UK, a pan chocolat in France, stroll through watching street performers, buy authentic goodies from all over the planet, then kick back and watch awesome fireworks with a margarita and a soft, German pretzel. Love it.

Hollywood Studios - the thriller. Hollywood Studios, formerly MGM Studios, has stuff for both little and big kids. There's shows like Indiana Jones and rides like the very cool Toy Storia Mania, which are good for anyone. Then it also has the only inversion coaster - the Rock n Roller Coaster with Aerosmith Music. It has the Tower of Terror, with a 13 floor drop at the end. Fantasmic is a great show, although it isn't offered every night, so check the schedule so you aren't disappointed.

Animal Kingdom - the change of pace. Animal Kingdom is the biggest park of the four, so be prepared to walk. At the same time, a lot of it is shaded and surrounded by plants, so its a touch more comfortable than some of the other parks. It also has a slower pace. I don't know why, but I never feel the need to rush through AK. There's a myriad of animals and exciting rides like Expedition Everest - a coaster that actually goes backwards at one point, and Dinosaur, which I can't remember because I had a panicking six year old in my lap the whole time, but seemed cool. The Safari Ride is not to be missed as is The Festival of the Lion King, hands down one of the best shows in any of the parks.

If you're wanting to eat at any of the parks, do some research in advance. As I mentioned, there's plenty of places to grab a burger but if you want to eat in a sit down restaurant, you'll need advance dining reservations, which can be done online.

Transportation

Although not technically a Disney hotel, the Swan and Dolphin are included in the Park Transportation System. As I mentioned, HWS and Epcot are within walking distance, but if you want to get to Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom or one of the other resorts, you'll need to get on the bus. Each bus is well marked with one of the parks. To get to another resort, you'll have to take the bus to the Transportation Center/Magic Kingdom. The Magic Kingdom bus doesn't actually to go the park itself. It goes to the Transportation Center where you catch the Monorail to the park entrance. This is the main hub and from here, you can grab a bus to any of the parks or resorts.

If you want to get off property or visit another park like Universal Studios, you'll have to grab a cab.

Got any Disney questions I didn't cover? Ask! Instigator or I will probably be able to answer any questions you've got.

SP

Conference Extras

So, we've talked about wardrobe, workshops, shoes (yes, that is a choir of angels you hear singing) and conference preparation. What's left to cover? How about the extras?

Book signings - Not only the Literacy Signing on Wed night, although that's a great place to meet all of your favorite authors in one room - not to mention any purchases you make go to support literacy in Nashville and Orlando. But also the many free book signings that the publishers offer throughout the weekend.

What I've discovered over the years is that if you want to attend a specific publisher's signing you better be in line way ahead of time. While most of the signings are scheduled for an hour and a half towards the back end of that time frame you'll find that the most popular authors will be out of books. There are usually at least 2 house signings scheduled for the same time frame so you might have to choose. In most cases you'll find the signings themselves will straddle workshop times and often knock two possible sessions off of your schedule. Sometimes when I need a break from learning lining up for free books is a great opportunity. Although, these things can often turn into chaos in a very short time. The rooms they're held in can be small with lines for individual authors snaking through the room and making movement difficult. I enjoy the book signings but I often find myself forgetting about them since they aren't in the same schedule as the workshops.

The Goody Room - Don't forget to visit! Several times. There are so many opportunities for fun marketing promo and toys. You'll also often find free books - either leftover from the luncheons or an author offering their own copies. My girls usually love the fun and funky things I bring home from the goody room. I will admit though, that I usually pass over the multitude of paper products that are offered unless something really catches my eye.

Books - Books reign down from the sky at RWA. Be prepared and plan ahead for how you're going to get them home. One price priority boxes from the post office are an excellent idea. Pre-paid postage slapped onto a box that lies flat in your luggage can't be beat. In past years there has been a shipping section set up in the lobby/conference area of the hotel on the last day or two in order to facilitate shipping for those that want to take this route. While this is a good idea, I usually go with another. I pack several non-perishable food items in my luggage (peanut butter, crackers, brownie bites, granola bars, etc.). These things will either be consumed or left and their space in my luggage can be filled with freebies and books.

Spotlights - Not quite a workshop, spotlights offer the publishing houses an opportunity to talk to writers about what they're looking for. You'll often learn information about what specific editors are interested in. This is also when a house might announce some change in their cover art, editorial and/or new avenues they plan to peruse. If you're interested in a specific house or editor spotlights can be an excellent source of information and well worth the time they tend to take up.

Conference offers so many options for writers and readers alike. Sometimes all of the choices can be overwhelming and paralyzing. I hope I've given you a little information on the extras that might help you make informed decisions about how to invest your time.

Are there any other parts of the conference that you're not quite sure about? Any other questions you have about what to expect/what will happen?

Instigator

Countdown to Conference: Staying Healthy

A couple years ago I came home from conference looking and feeling like this. And since then I've tried to take steps to come home NOT looking like this. Well, I'll be exhausted but hopefully not sick.

So how do you mingle at close quarters with 2000 other writers and stay healthy?

~ Drink lots of water. This conference is pretty much at sea level, but some years back we were at about 4500 feet, and that can make a big difference in how your body behaves. Even though we don't have altitude to worry about this year, we'll have extreme heat. Orlando in July is like a steam bath. So drink lots of water and stay hydrated. A dehydrated body is more susceptible to germs. Dehydration can also give you a headache, and a crowded meeting room is the last place you want to have your head pounding. More than likely, every meeting room will have a water station in the back. If you like, you can carry an empty water bottle through airport security and fill it up from the drinking fountain on the other side. This way you can start drinking while you're in that pressurized cabin (which also causes dehydration) and get a head start.

~ Hand sanitizer. Need I say more? You can get it at the dollar store and while I don't suggest becoming Mr. Monk-ishly obsessive with it, it can help ward off nasty germs.



~ Be careful about your alcohol consumption. Sure, that cocktail tastes good and has a cute little umbrella in it. I'm not telling you not to drink. I'm just saying that alcohol acts as a diuretic, which dehydrates you. At our RWA meeting last month, etiquette expert Laura Bingham Ritch advised drinking a glass of water between cocktails to lessen the chance of getting plastered. I'm guessing it will help re-hydrate you.

~ Be careful about your caffeine consumption too. Caffeine is also a diuretic. And it can give you a right good buzz if you consume too much. We don't want you wide-eyed and dehydrated at 3 AM.

~ Try to eat well at the conference. I know. I'm dreaming the impossible dream. But go for protein over carbs if possible. Go for complex carbs over simple carbs (i.e. an apple instead of a cookie). That cookie will give you a quick sugar rush, but an apple will stick with you longer. And some cheese or yogurt is even better if it's available. I plan to tuck a box of Kashi bars in my suitcase for the inevitable mid-afternoon slump.

~ Schedule yourself some "down" time to de-stress. When you're out and about, you're ON and you need time to flip the switch to OFF for a while. Go back to your room and lie down. Or sit with a good friend in a corner of the lobby and take a load off your feet. You won't regret it.

~ If you're going to be outdoors in Orlando, remember my previous caution about water and also slather on some sunscreen. You don't want to have to fly back home with a nasty sunburn.

~ If you take any sort of prescription medications, be sure to carry them ON THE PLANE with you so you don't end up in Orlando while your meds end up in Boise. Also take along any over-the-counter medications you might need such as pain reliever, anti-diarrhea pills, antihistamines and/or decongestant, antacid, motion sickness, cortisone cream, antibiotic ointment, et cetera. One thing NOT to pack: your perfume. Many people are allergic plus a room with fifty different perfumes wafting about can get pretty noxious.

~ Plan ahead. This eliminates a lot of worry and stress, which are known to weaken your immune system. Look over the workshop offerings before you go to Orlando and make a list of those you want to attend. Add in any other scheduled meetings or appointments. I use a chart like the one below and fill it out before I leave home. Having my schedule on one page helps a lot.



You can design something for yourself in Word or Excel and eliminate schedule confusion before you go.

So what have I missed? What's your suggestion for staying healthy during the conference?