New York

We have had some busy days the last couple of weeks. But the highlight of my time was the writing conference in New York City. I actually have never been into the city, and was very happy to have some friends with me that knew New York well.

We also celebrated a friend's birthday at Serendipity's. They  have awesome frozen hot chocolate. I got a cherry one. It was yummy!

I didn't take many pictures because we were busy learning. Wow! That conference was overwhelming, depressing, scary and at the same time it was educational, inspiring, and fun. I know that makes no sense, but I have never been to a national covention before and really did not know what to expect.
It was neat to hear from editors, publishers, agents and published authors and illustrators. The things we learned both grounded me and gave me goals to aim for. I am so glad I was able to go and I am looking forward to using the information I learned to make my writing better.

Here's one of the few pictures we took. I am on the roof of the hotel where we stayed. The empire state building is in the background.

Nathan also had a great weekend. He was awarded his Webelo badge on Friday. I am so glad he has that next hurdle done. Now it is on to the Arrow of Light.

And one more thing, I forgot. (Hopefully I will get a recording of this soon.) JJ was picked to give her teacher her official good-bye (she's having a baby) on the morning announcements. At our school they record it and show it on all the TV's in each classroom. She dressed in one of her nicest dresses and said, "Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, Mrs. Wold, we're going to miss you." She was supposed to read it, but she memorized it and she did a fabulous job. She was proud that she got was picked for that honor.