Where's the Proof??

I hauled my camera to the Westford Grill last night, but forgot to whip it out. You know, because the conversation was THAT good. (W is for Westford Grill, writers in person?)

Kip Wilson Rechea (@kiperoo) talked about how she writes every day so she maintains altitude. You know, those writing take-offs can be bumpy (and time consuming)!! How smart is that?

Melissa Stewart (@mstewartscience) spoke about speaking at schools. Check out her awesome stash of science books. 

Deborah Kops (@Deborahkops) talked of our responsibility as writers to promote strong, confident girls as main characters in our books. Because girls today certainly could use good role models. 

Kris Asselin (@KristineAsselin) wowed us with her logline. I know that good news will be on the horizon for Kris' excellent YA. 

Jolanta Davis spoke with me at length about special needs advocacy. Thanks so much Jolanta! I'd love to see you publish around this issue. Clearly you have the expertise and the heart for it!

What did I contribute? I'm not entirely sure. I loved the conversation and the laughs, though!

Thanks again Kris, for making the meet up happen! I can't wait to see everyone again at #nescbwi!

What nuggets of wisdom have you gleaned from your writing friends recently? Will I see you at the NESCBWI? 

Face Time: At the Grille

Okay, so, I apologize for the dead air that has been filling my blog--I hope you all have been busy too. I'm going on a trip soon, so it's only going to get worse before it gets better. But, bear with me; I have been having fun experimenting with different types of writing an collaborating that I will share with you--all in due time!

A few nights ago, Kris put together a fabulous kidlit night out at the Westford Grille, and I was so excited to hang out with other writers! Martha, Nandini and I hopped into my SUV, and we braved all sorts of back, rural, dark New England roads (we waved at Walden Pond) until we came out into the dubious civilization of Westford.

We talked libraries and writing, and commiserated over how long this process takes, especially with family and life and all that good stuff thrown in. I really enjoyed talking with everyone--old friends and new.

Me, with Lynda Mullaly Hunt and Jeanne Munn Bracken

Sometimes candids don't pan out. You can see Nandini way over to the left, Marissa Doyle in light grey, Natasha in pink,  Lynda in blue, and forgive me, other wonderful writers, but I didn't remember your names. I was sitting at the other table!

Martha, Deborah Kops, and Kris

Then, we hopped into my car to drive home, and realized (thanks, helpful random guys who tapped on my window!) that one of my tires was almost flat.

How many writers does it take to put air in a tire??

Nandini got advice on the phone from her hubby, Martha donated the quarters, 

and I aimed the air gun.

Martha and I posing for Nandini.

Miraculously, the tire held air all the way home. With no help from me. I discovered the tire's air valve cover IN MY POCKET once I got home. Evidently we needed one more writer to screw on the cap. :)

Thanks to all the lovely writers who came together the other night--and thanks Kris for setting it all into motion!! This kind of face time fuels my writing for a good long time. I came home inspired!

What face time have you had with other writers recently? How are you faring this winter? Any tire fiascoes adding color to your life?