Friday, October 16, 2009

My nerves are getting the best of me...

Bungee jumping is one of those things that I will never do. Someone could offer me a million bucks and I still wouldn't do it. (Two million, maybe.) Still, right now I am so jittery that you'd think the offer was on the table.

It's not...BUT attending the regional SCBWI conference is.

It's tomorrow.

Tomorrow morning.

I am driving down to Birmingham tomorrow morning to attend my very first writer's conference. Usually, people sign up for these events months in advance. Me? I just got my confirmation yesterday. I came across the information about a week ago, emailed the regional advisor to see if they would still accept my registration, and got a very friendly "We are so happy you can make it" go ahead.

Do I have anything prepared?

No.

Did I sign up for a critique session?

Heavens-no!

Do I know what I am going to wear?

Yes. (I only have two outfits that would be acceptable, and I don't like the shoes that go with one of 'em so that was easy to decide.)

Do I really have any business going to this thing?

Surprisingly, yes. There are workshops galore for all levels of children's writers and illustrators. So there will hopefully be other newbies like me there, wide-eyed and overwhelmed. It should be a great opportunity to learn, learn, learn, and make some connections with both published and aspiring writers. And hopefully, I'll meet some local SCBWI members from my area and maybe, just maybe, be able to join a monthly writing critique group. That would be awesome.

Still, I am nervous. Excited, but nervous.

I've been googling "conference etiquette" today and came across this very useful post. After reading about her experience, I've come up with a game plan - listen, learn, introduce myself to people, and definitely do not corner an editor or agent in the bathroom. :)

Wish me luck!

7 comments:

Down in the Sun said...

You will love it and they will all love you! I am so glad that you are doing this. It is just what you need right now and I am happy that Pat supports you in it! Have a blast! I can't wait to hear all about it. Sleep well!

Robins Fam said...

How awesome for you! That is super exciting that you are really emerging yourself in the writing world. Have fun!!

Jen said...

You go girl! We miss you around these parts girl...just can't adjust to not having you around! Hope you had a great time at the conference. I'm so excited that you are following this dream of yours and can't wait till you follow the road home...to VA! :)

Jenny Ramsey said...

you are going to do wonderfully! you are amazing and i'm so excited for you girl!! i fully plan on being first in line to purchase your first children's book! :)sure miss you!!!

Heidi said...

Wow Kelli! That is so exciting. I think I'd be so nervous that I spend the whole time in the bathroom. But it wouldn't be in the hopes of cornering an editor. I am so impressed! And you are so brave for venturing into the writing world!
I will keep my fingers crossed for you. And let us know how everything turns out as soon as you get back!
Wishing you all the luck in the world!

amanda said...

can't wait to hear how it went!!

i am sure you did great :)

amanda said...

I hope you had a good time. You are so good and ambitious to attend the conference. I am anxious to hear how it went.