Was a blast. Everyone was so nice and had so much wisdom and experience to share. Morning speech went terrifically well, I though, even though my knees were knocking at the start. I heartily recommend that emerging writers and those with new books who want to stay on top of media and industry trends check out one of the conferences. You'll make invaluable connections and come home armed with knowledge and boosted spirits.
So-Cal Writers Conference

As promised, I've posted my speech/notes on the Writers' resource page.
I add to the page as I discover new sites that can help propel you forward on your journey to publication and a successful writing career. My latest find is Boxing the Octopus, a four-writer blog that's a plenty fun read. Don't forget to bookmark or subscribe my critique group's blog, the Page a Day Writers, a delightful Whitman's sampler of delicious writerly truffles.

Because I spent yesterday dropping bon mots and pretending to be famous, the usual weekend duties suffered an additional day of neglect. Off come the black velvet and mauve lipstick, to be replaced with rubber gloves and paint-splattered sweats for a day of pretending to clean, mop the gritty floors and then shampoo one dirty little doggy. There's homework to finish, errands to run, a Valentine's day dinner & cocktails. Did I mention the newly installed window that needs to be caulked, sanded, prepped and painted? Also thought I'd squeeze in a quick tryst with the Kitchen-Aid to make a batch of pink frosted, heart shaped sugar cookies. Somehow, in the midst of all of this, I have to find a couple hours to write.

The orange trees are covered with buds and the scent of orange blossoms is strong. I ate a sour little orange fresh off the branch this morning, warm from the morning sun. Who can complain, when life is so good?