I just flew back from Dallas, and boy my arms are tired… 
Sorry! Couldn’t resist.
Here’s what I did at the RWA National Convention:
I met several of my idols. Hannah Howell. Sherilyn Kenyon. Lynsay Sands. The literacy book signing was unbelieveable. Authors of all shapes and sizes. I tried to keep my drooling down to a minimum. I found it amusing that I purchased two books I already owned. But I wanted autographs, and it was for an excellent cause.
I listened to people who know the craft tell me how my writing can improve. The workshops were informative and exciting. They left me with a thirst to write. Of course, I’m usually thirsty enough, but… It was invigorating. I also was blessed with two new story ideas.
I met lots and lots and lots of new people. An empath. Several award winning authors. And women just like me who have a dream and are chasing it over hill and yon. New friends. New acquaintances. Plus, the people-watching was irresistable. Of course, being me, every time I sat down just to watch the world go by, I always ended up talking to people. Then more people would gather. Those of you who know me will understand. I tend to gather crowds. (Translate: I’m loud and talk to everyone.) Not sure if that’s good or bad, but… I never sat more than a few minutes without starting a conversation.
I had my first editor pitch and lived to tell the tale. I was very pleased because she not only remembered my name, but she remembered the name of my manuscript. I passed her a million times after that. Getting coffee. At a luncheon. At the awards ceremony. I hope she knows it was pure coincidence. I wasn’t stalking her or anything.
I found out you can take the teacher out of the school, but you can’t take the school out of the teacher. I went to walk through Dealy Plaza and to take a plethora of pictures of the grassy knoll. A couple of Asian men were asking questions about the JFK assassination. I, being the informative and totally opinionated person I am, regaled them with my take on the murder. Their friends joined them, and I gave the five of them a nice ten minute history lesson. Then I turned around and realized that there were twenty-some people gathered behind me listening. I think a few people applauded. Good heavens, was my face red.
I connected with several of my chapter sisters. Kay — you are the perfect roommate! Thank you! Gay and Dottie, I truly enjoyed that hour-plus we spent chatting over beer. I hope I didn’t talk your ears off! Judith — I couldn’t have made it through the plane rides or the entire week without you! Nancy — thanks for making me feel included! I’ll never forget that dinner at Dick’s. 
Peggy — thanks for keeping an eye on the newbie! Bethany, Ellie, Alicia, Adrienne, Natalie, Leshia, Kelly — it was wonderful to spend time with all of you! And Judie — I missed you more than you could know!
So, all in all, it was time well spent. The conference is in San Francisco next year. California, here I come! 