Hope can spring from unlikely places...
Every now and then, one has to stop and make a point to be grateful. The past few days have filled me with such hope and joy that I’d be remiss if I did not say thank you to all the hearts that have been so kind and generous to me (both those I’ve known for years, and the new friends I’ve just met).
I am delivered back to Seattle, safe and sound (and finally showered!). Goodnight dear world. Tomorrow is going to be beautiful.
xoxo
Wow, I have a blog. How original, right? So, I’ll try to keep this short and sweet (and sour only when necessary). I had the AMAZING experience of attending the SCBWI Winter Conference in New York (that’s Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators). I participated in a portfolio competition–and won! Not bad for a first time attendee!!!
I actually ate at Vesuvio this Friday--the bakery in SoHo that "modelled" for this piece.
So, I’ll give credit where it’s due. The reason why I’m making a blog is at the insistance of Debbie Ohi, who I met through a series of (apparently fortunate) events. Saturday night, after a long lovely day of conferencing, I made the foolish decision of getting into a black taxi instead of a yellow. When I finally got to my friend’s apartment in Brooklyn, the driver decided that a short trip from SoHo would cost me $48. Hmmm. While I was arguing with the driver over the price, I finally folded with a huff, put down the cash (no tip!), and also left my phone.
I have an idea for a new book, a modern version of “A Man Without A Country” called “A Man Without A Cell Phone.” Compelling, no? I think it’s current and there would be an audience. Please contact me for a book deal asap! I was obviously put off by this development, but I had such a good day at the conference that I was able to let it roll off my back. I hated that interface anyway.
The next morning, I met Laura Clement, a writer based in Seattle. If her writing is anything like her personality, then I’m sure we’re all in for a treat. Well, when I was just about to leave the conference, Laura was good enough to lend me her phone to see if I could reach my favorite cab driver in New York. I went straight to voicemail, which leads me to believe that my phone is now dead, and I will not retrieve it before I depart tomorrow. Meanwhile, Laura introduced me to Debbie Ohi, Roberta Rivera, Russ Cox, Fred Koehler, and Wouter Bruneel, who were kind enough to let me tag along for lunch!
We had a great time sharing art school horror stories, Photoshop tutorials, and last but not least, social media tips. Debbie was quite insistant that I start one of these puppies, so here we are!
I am rushing off to meet the family for dinner. Stay tuned!!!
mike curato 