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!