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Robin, So glad you liked the chocolate.I have to say that the conference was in my top five of conferences I have ever attended.

You certainly deserved a treat for all that you had given to us. The conference was an amazing experience and it was all because of you.

But if you’re loving me more, I’ll take it.

Hmm. I didn’t know quitters DESERVED chocolate.

Oh what a nice suprize!

Thank you, Jone, Mother Reader, and Dylan! I really appreciate it.

Barry, everyone should have a mean friend.

Glad to help!

Even if they were “artisanal,” they are still small thanks for the huge amazing thing you did for the kidlitosphere!

I posted one last post about the conference yesterday.

http://jkrbooks.typepad.com/blog/2007/10/promoting-the-k.html

But you're right - it really is time to move on.

As someone who wasn't about to attend your conference, I really appreciate the round-ups of all those that attended.

Now to figure out how I fit into the kidlitosphere.

Thanks are in order to YOU for such a GREAT job! The music was such a nice touch.

Mark and Andrea, THANK YOU! What a wonderful, wonderful memento! You know I’m a big cry baby, and this certainly didn’t help. Weep!

The way many of you have shared this event with others online has given me a list of new blogs to visit that will keep me reading and learning for a long time! Thanks to you all!

I’m a bajillion years slow and just heard this. AWESOME. Great job, you guys!

I'm so jealous!

Man! Wish I'd gone to Planet Esme! Thanks for posting the great pics! Great meeting you on Saturday. I really enjoyed your presentation, too.

Andrea Beaty

I agree -- this place should totally be featured on TV!

LIZ!!

Should the rest of us attendees feel insulted that you took more pictures of Esme's bookshelves than of us? Hmm. I wonder if Rob Morrow/Don Eppes had been there, would his photo count dwarf the bookshelves? Again, hmm...

Hope you're having a great week!!

Best,
Jim

I am giggling like a 12 year old about the RM/DE aspect.

Liz, I am totally blushing! Thank you so much for posting all the lovely photos and generous comments, they made me jealous of myself. I love your blog and I'm so honored to have the Bookroom featured here. It was great meeting you in a real place outside of cyberspace, hope I'll have the pleasure again soon!

There's even a little cleavage going on in your picture, you little minx.

Great fun hanging out with you. Can't wait to do it again.

MR, that's another way to build traffic! "come look at Liz B's cleavage."

Or, to have no one look at your site ever again....

It was so much fun; you better come up to Philly for ALA, even if it's just for the exhibits & hanging out!

Our presentations coordinated because we're both brilliant, dincha know?

Thanks for the kind words. Can't wait until Portland.

Great meeting you, Liz! I was saying to someone that the Conference was like meeting up with 40 close friends, plus 20 other people who were close friends of the folks I knew, and therefore most likely to be friends of mine. Great fun, indeed. AND I second Fuse's praise o' your leading us in a session...

Great to meet you, Liz. I didn't have any good gossip on you, except that you cause any show you follow to be canceled and I really didn't want to reinforce that myth in case you're watching Friday Night Lights. Or House.

I think I told you this in person, but all those conversations with so many people are starting to run together, so I'll say it again: great presentation on ethics. I thought it summed up the state of what we'd already discussed as well as gave us all new things to think about as we blaze this kidlitosphere trail.

I put up my first post about the conference, I'm sure I'll have more as the day goes on.

Got'ya, Liz! It was SOOOOOOOO great to finally meet you.

Thanks so much for rounding up these posts. I for one really appreciate it.

Hey Kelly:

I have some inital reactions over at booktopia, and my planet esme love over at tweendom!

It was great finally meeting everyone!

Hi Kelly! It was great to meet you! I've got my post up too, part I of 2. Tomorrow will all be about Esme's apartment! Hope you had a good trip back -- see you next year!

Oh, great, Alkelda! I'm sorry you weren't there. I would have loved to meet you. Next year?

Stacy: It was wonderful to meet you!! I got your posts...

Hi Laini: It was great to meet you too. I can't wait to read your book and about Esme's, which I sadly had to miss. See you in Portland! (I may have to bring the family for that one. We've never been.)

***Jumping up and down waving arms***
I FINALLY posted my insights/musings on my blog!!!
http://annamlewis.livejournal.com/

So nice to meet you all!

(Kelly, I linked to you!)

Whoops, you already edited and added me!!!!
Thank you so much!!!

I got you after your post to the listserv. Thanks for the link :)

Hi Kelly,
Great to meet you! I did a short post about the conference at Wizards Wireless.
-Susan

Mary Lee has letters, Jules and Eisha have photos and I have JEALOUSY!!!!

Hi Kelly!

Seems like everybody's getting in on the recap action! For my perspective, here's a permalink address if you're interested:

http://jimdibartolo.blogspot.com/2007/10/kidlitosphere-conference-2007.html

It was GREAT meeting you this weekend!

Best,
Jim

My gossipy post: http://saralewisholmes.blogspot.com/2007/10/gossip-column.html

I'm in with Part II today:

http://dadtalk.typepad.com/book_buds_kidlit_reviews/2007/10/the-kidlit-bl-1.html

It's a recap of my talk on reviewing.

I got mine up after the ballet class and Girl Scout leader meeting - after driving 3 hours back to No. VA, that is.

Great spending time with you again Kelly.

Thanks, Kelly! You're a pretty great conversationalist yourself. I enjoyed finding out the secret of how you manage to do much (no sleep).
-Susan

Thanks for the great roundup!

Great meeting you on Saturday!

Andrea Beaty

Three Silly Chicks

www.threesillychicks.com

Thanks for pulling everyone's posts together! I have a really short one here: http://www.pixiepalace.com/2007/10/07/kidlitosphere-conference-thanks-for-the-memories/

It was awesome to meet you this weekend!

I'm sure I'm gonna be writing about this for some time. Here's my biggest post so far, though....

It was just great to meet you in person. I feel like I've known you for a long time now. My post is short but heart felt.

So, can I just link to everyone's round ups for my December Prairie Wind article? It'll all be old-hat by then.

Thanks to all for your posts. I'm looking forward to a cuppa tea and a good long read tomorrow.

Ilene

I also wish we could have talked longer than a "hi." Maybe next year?!

Thank you Liz for your round-up of the blogs on the conference. I've been happily reading them all. It was wonderful meeting all of you and listening to the presentations and commentary. I wish I could have talked to every single one of you! Thank you for your help during the conference.
Jenny Schwartzberg

Hi Liz! It was really great to meet you! I second what Betsy said about your public speaking. You were very smooth!

I've added Truly Madly Deeply to the netflix queue, now you must add Amelie! And please let me know if you'd like me to send you a copy of Blackbringer. I would be happy to!

And weirdly, I tried leaving a comment about a half hour ago and the weirdest thing would happen -- whenever I would drag the cursor over a link the whole link would just vanish. It was very strange!!

Sounds very cool! Also cool that my peeps from my two worlds (Liz here in library land and Shaken & Stirred Gwenda on the writing side) are colliding and happening.

Liz, I love the roundup. Thanks for writing it up for those of us who couldn't be there.

Liz!!!

I too experienced the disappearing link on your blog -- playing hard-to-get? Flirty flirty teasing blog of yours! Anyhow, it was great getting to know you and to experience the stealthiness that is your wit :)

I hope you're planning on coming to Portland next year!

All best,
Jim

P.S. - I mentioned you on my blog -- prepare for FAME! :)

Jules, how exciting to be able to say "see you next year." I hope very much it's a good weekend for me!

Jenny, I had a great time & hope that when I'm next in Chicago I get to see your library. In the meanwhile, please start blogging!

Laini, I sent you an email re the book and realized I forgot to include my address. I'll get that to you asap. And I've mentioned your post in my second Conference post. I wonder if you were reading the post when I went in to edit to add some links?

John, it's such a small (internet) world.

Susan, you were missed.

Jim, with that mention on your blog my stats will go crazy, I'm sure! I am planning to be in Portland, and to make stay long enough to see more than the inside of a conference room. (Flirty blog...I like it.)

Great post, Liz! You definitely captured the flavor of the event. I enjoyed meeting you.
-Susan

Great round up! You know I am hanging on every word...

31 Flavorite Authors kick-off
The Cybils kick-off
Procedure okay
Contract checked, confirmed, and mailed
Hunchback callback
Here, there be dragons
Elven email check-in
Pirates offer
Spring
Sprang
Sprung

Hands down, flying to Chicago for your conference, that was the nicest thing I’ve done for myself in a long time. I gushed more on my own blog today. But Robin, you did an amazing, amazing thing.

Oh, and Mheir and I made chocolate fondue tonight.

I’m coming more and more to see that this is a discipline, rather than the la-la frills of a little self-luxury once in a while so you have something to write here. ‘This’ being the Friday list and all it can mean. Okay, the universe is hitting me over the head with the message from all directions, but I do generally try to listen when it does!

From Eat, Pray, Love: ‘The search for contentment is, therefore, not merely a self-preserving and self-benefiting act, but also a generous gift to the world.’

Going to go read all the reports of the con in that spirit now.

Definitely going to the conference, despite the craziness at home. I had so much fun meeting everyone and talking about blogs. Thank you, Robin!

Jen, I hope the conference was better than the flight.

Glad to hear that the conference went well-maybe I’ll attend the time or so around. As for the nice thing I did for me,I had a day to myself and I went to see The Jane Austen Book Club(so wonderfully funny and romantic,just like the book!).

I also bought a new book(Riders by Jilly Cooper)and added the tenth anniversary edition of Casino to my DVD library. Pretty nice-hot,but nice!(it’s time for some cold weather here in the Northeast,especially since it’s October already! But I digress…)

I’m so glad the conference went well! Something you might want to think about, though: the current style of picking the next venue favors the people who were already there, as opposed to people who couldn’t go because of the venue. Just an idea.

My nice thing was that I went out an bought Scott Westerfeld’s Extra’s. However, I’m not sure what I’m doing with it now counts as nice or merely efficient: it is currently acting as the carrot at the end of the stick for my writing. My WiP is fairly close in genre to Extras, and on the way home from the bookstore I realized it might not be the best idea to read it while trying to get my WiP done before November (gotta be free for NaNoWriMo!) as it will sneak in and exert its influence in ways it really shouldn’t.

So now I can’t read Extras until I’ve finished my book.

I now have Extras sitting right next to my keyboard, staring at me. This has resulted in two straight nights of ten single-spaced pages worth of production.

My system is working.

Maybe that does count as nice.

(By the way, Robin, I found out that your blog will let me comment from my mom’s computer.)

I went out with my friend Erin, who’s a senior in high school, on Friday. It was Senior Skip Day and we went and the movie The Jane Austen Book Club. It was a good chick flick and we had a good time just hanging out and goofing off. Erin’s been like my little sister (I’m 28) and I’m proud of my role in her life and hope she is too.

A friend of a friend won an open bar on Saturday night, so I broke down and acted like a normal college kid for a night and got trashed.
It’s fun every so often, but jeez, I really don’t understand how some people can go out drinking every night. It’s so tiring!

Well let’s see I got Etras by Scott Westerfeld but I haven’t got very far in it yet though I’m sure it’s exilent! and I saw some friends and a guy i’d like to get to know better…;) and i came up with a new book idea and started writing! That was a big one for me because I’ve been having a huge no writing time and complete doubt in myself as a writer thinking i’m not ment for it ans such so it’s been kinda cool. Other then that I’ve been sick with a cold so lying in bed doing nothing pretty much. XD and I think that’s all… I did get my friend to read your book too and she also loved it! Anywho guess that raps up my week!

It’s been a nice week in general. Some sunshiney picnic-blanket days on the lawn with the girls; some overcast, drizzly days for splashing in puddles. My husband took Friday off and had today off as a holiday, so we had lots of special family time over the four-day weekend.

The nicest thing I did just for me was pick up Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight when I found the paperback at Wal-Mart. I’m swamped with editing work, but I dared to peek at the first chapter and pretty much screwed myself for the rest of the week. At any other time in my life, I’d have finished it by now, but I’m enjoying it in small doses, savoring every word. More about that tomorrow on book club day.

Thanks for being such a fabulous archivist of the weekend! Can’t wait to hear and see what you all produce, as a result.

[…] (For the record, I got a big family photo, too, but it came out way too dark. Go see Mark and Andrea for a beautiful copy) . . . […]

Hey, I’m waiting breathlessly for your podcast of the event.

Thanks for all the excellent pictures and your whiz-bang presentation. Great meeting you both.

Great photo! And wow, that sounds like a terrifying flight! Glad you’re both safe.

Thanks for the picture with the floating notes of who’s who…that’s fabulous. And I really enjoyed your session on podcasting: so much solid information and I appreciated you taking questions from the floor and flowing along in response to those inquiries.

And on a personal note: it was fun having lunch with you and hearing a bit of your family story. Hope your flight back was smoother!

It was really wonderful to meet you both at the conference, glad you got home safe and sound! Sooooo appreciate your amazing documentation, the slide show lets me relive a weekend that I didn’t want to end. *You* have been unbelievably generous with your time, enthusiasm and and expertise! Much love your way…

Hi guys! It was great to meet you — I loved how on friday night Mark came into the lobby and instantly started making hug rounds of the room. I could tell he was a shy one!! The photos are great — looking forward to listening to your podcasts. You’ve inspired me to think about doing more of my own. (Maybe!)

See you next year!

Hey All!

Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving such kind words.

It was really great to meet you this weekend. We’ll be following your blogs — and listening to your soon-to-be podcasts — while we await KidLit 2008 in Portland.

So great meeting both of you! Thanks for the great pictures and podcasts! Hope to see you in Ottawa someday!

Great meeting you guys. And thanks for capturing so much of the conference for us and for sharing your podcasting wisdom. I may be stepping into the dark side sometime soon.

It was a wonderful weekend and it was wonderful to meet you both and be a part of it.

Robin, Seriously, this was The Best. I am going to have to figure out a way to afford Portland next year.

Maybe some year it could be in New York, closer to the US/Canadian border? I so wish I could be there, but the air fare and hotel got a bit too expensive for me. Any way–it sounds like you’re all having a wonderful time, and I’m glad.

Portland, Maine?

Portland? Darn. There’s no way that I can make it to Portland. Maybe 2009 can be on the East Coast? Oh well.

Robin — You deserve to be tired and happy, but also PROUD. You did this, sister. I hope you got lots and lots of lots of kudos all weekend long…

Robin,
The conference was fantastic. Thanks for everything.

Portland, Maine was my first thought, too. Might have been able to swing that one…

Portland sounds awesome!

Maybe Portland, OR in 08 and Portland, ME in 09? There’s some nice symmetry in that

In any case, beautiful job, Robin. It was wonderful.

Maybe Portland, OR in 08 and Portland, ME in 09? There’s some nice symmetry in that

Sounds good to me. It certainly should be somewhere here on the Right Coast in ‘09.

What an amazing weekend!

I’m wiped out…in a good way. Gold stars for you, coffee buddy. I mean that.

just got home from a wonderful weekend. seriously, everyone who missed it and feels bad about it and even those like certain space lords who probably don’t feel all that bad, should in fact feel really, really bad. thanks rb

YAY! It’s so great to hear your having a good time!

Yup, this is the life, sitting around at home staring at Bloglines waiting for all of you to update all the fun you’re having so I can feel even worse about not being able to make it this year.

Hey, how many of you are going to be at the Horn Book Awards this coming week? Anyone? You can rub it in my face while you’re there!

Seriously, sounds like fun. *sigh*

Oh, this is so great! I am here! I have taken over the mind and body of one of the attendees!

Now, the game is on. Who am I?

*sigh* I’m sitting here like Cinderella, waiting for the fairy godmother to show up and whisk me off to Chicago in a mouse-driven gourd…

Yup, this is the life, sitting around at home staring at Bloglines waiting for all of you to update all the fun you’re having so I can feel even worse about not being able to make it this year.

Strange. That’s what I’ve been doing since I got home from work this afternoon….

I’m glad everyone is having a great time!

I admit it, I’m here- don’t throw any stones at me or anything! It really is fabulous… Robin did an AMAZING job pulling everything together.

All right, Sheila, I’ll put your name on the “might be vouched for” list. You’re another step closer to being proven real.

Kelley, different place, maybe same time. See the new post I just posted.

Katie, your life ROCKS. You are the envy of so many, including me. I love dog barf. Gimme more.

Thanks, Dylan!

David, it really does sound pathetic when you put it that way. Maybe if you induce vomiting in your dog you’ll feel better? Try it and get back to us.

Patrick, are you Mother Reader? Or Fuse #8? I give up.

Sorry, Sarah! But maybe you’ll be happy to know that your name came up during the raffle portion of our evening. Miss Rumphius gave away a Mo Willems t-shirt and tote, and explained that part of the journey that led her to that was Fuse posting a picture of you with some Mo t-shirt. Did I get that right? I’m kind of exhausted.

RM1, see above re dog vomit. Sorry, man.

Wizards, thank you! I’m so glad you could come and play with all of us.

Alkelda, you’ll be happy to see my new post! We’re coming close to you!

Ha! Yeah, you got it right. I’m famous now! (In a pigeony way, at least.)

I mean, I KNEW it would be that good. That’s why it’s killin’ me.
I can understand you questioning our inmate-status, and I think the point is, It should be CRIMINAL not to go!! Right?
So happy to read this update, Robin. Thanks…

Well, you weren’t going to escape a hug from me in any case, but the permission is received with great joy.

I’m touched to be part of your journey this year and grateful for the opportunity - provided by you, I might add - to give you a hug in actual person.

Well-said, MotherReader.

Hugs all around!

Virtual hugs to you, sister!

Have a great weekend. Wish I could be there.

rb, love this post. not just the leting hugs into your life but “embracing” change.
so we have the dress code for the weekend and now premission to go for full body contact–awesome!

Yeah, I never knew literature was a full-contact sport! jk.

You might even need to go for one really grand group grope sometime — in between sessions.

What I love is that you are luring people closer before you possess them with the devil.

snort

Patrick, did we not agree we would never discuss that?

Heather, I wish you could be there, too! But hopefully there will be enough blogging that comes out of it that you and everyone else will feel like you were there.

Annette, ease up there–I might still be skittish if you’re talking full-body. Same to you, Liz.

Emily, me neither.

Thanks, Mother Reader and Sara! You definitely have been part of the therapy.

AW sweet Robin! It’s interesting how diffrent things can change our personalitys/ lifes isn’t it?

Am I confusing what has been said here with a big public room filled with 100 people? MJG made me say it. I swear she did. And the butler too.

Ohhh, I’ve been trying to avoid reading the posts about the conference this weekend because I CAN’T GO and hate feeling like I am missing out. Pout. I am a veteran hugger and, yes, I’ll admit, a social kisser, sometimes even in the air. But I am perceptive and I have good boundaries anyway, so I don’t impose. I would have hugged you Robin. I know all of you will have such a great time this weekend, that this conference will become an annual affair and I hope to be a huggin’ and a kissin’ there next year! ENJOY!

“Group grope” — I love it, Liz!

I’m not flippin’ leaving without a Robin hug…

Awww. See. Figures I’ll miss out on all this. Have fun this weekend!

So I’ll miss out on a lot of hugs this weekend. Sigh.

I did go back and read your post about hugging, though, and it made me feel guilty about my almost 3-year-old (come November 5, I can drop the “almost”). She’ll gladly hug her grandparents, but the “greats” are a different story. She doesn’t see them often enough to feel comfortable with them, and yet they always expect a hug. I’ve felt torn between encouraging her to be respectful, open, and friendly and telling them to back off and give her some time. One great-grandma thinks if she hands my daughter a box of animal crackers, that should bridge any gap and start a hugging free-for-all. When I step back and assess it, it’s a horrible lesson I’m teaching my girl when I take part in shaming her for not being more loving toward people she barely knows. And yet they think she’s stubborn, shy, or even rude. It’s terribly unfair to a child, I think. Thanks for that post, whether or not you regret it. (:

Those of us who will be SULKING AT HOME expect a FULL REPORT from everyone who is going!

Robin, You’re awesome.

Wow. I cannot wait; and I am very impressed with how much stuff you fit in & all you did.

Yup, here at FW we’re pretty bummed we can’t make it. TadMack has a better excuse than I do…”Saving up for travel in November” doesn’t sound so good.

Ermm….can I telecommute??

Oh! So sad to miss it.

Those of us who will be SULKING AT HOME expect a FULL REPORT from everyone who is going!

Lots of reports - one from everybody.

With lots of photos.

TadMack, a. fortis, Katie, and RM1–I hate that anyone who wishes they could come can’t. I’m already planning next year’s in my head–Seattle, I’m thinking–even though I’m also planning for someone else to throw it. Volunteers?

Liz and Adrienne, thank you. I’m happy to do it. It makes my little heart swell.

But I’m still looking for volunteers for next year.

Ooooh … Seattle sounds great. Though I can’t wait ’til this one begins! Serious butterflies here.

Anne, what’s to be nervous about? We’re all friends. We’re all wearing jeans. Totally low-key.

*mournful sigh*

Will someone please, please, please take notes and/or blog about the “Ethics of Reviewing” session?

Have fun, everyone. Safe travels.

Sarah: If they are wearing jeans, they’re definitely not wearing dresses from the kids’ dept.

Yes, please, notes on the ethics of reviewing! And of ARCs and review copies.

If it’s in Seattle next year I’m totally there! And if only I still lived there, I could host (which is easy to say since I don’t still live there…)

Have fun, all!

Maybe people who attended would be so kind as to leave links here to any posts they write on the conference.

I intend to do so (if I ever get around to writing actual post …)

WooHoo! I pretty much only wear jeans anyway, so this means I don’t have to BUY a dress. (Though I’d buy one if Tim were coming. He’s my hero.)

See, now, I knew this conference should have taken place in Seattle. In Seattle, almost every event is a jeans and tee-shirt event. However, my husband has noticed that at Microsoft they’ve started eschewing the golf-shirt for a button-down shirt, and in 20 years, they might actually have worked up to a tie…

I think I’ll just start achin’ with envy now and keep up a good solid jealous streak straight through the conference. During which I’ll be planted here at home instead of in Chicago. Waaaah….

Hmmm… What about sequined jeans? Just kidding. I think having a casual dress code is a very happy thing. Working from home, one definitely gets a bit spoiled in terms of wearing comfortable clothing.

My flight leaves at 6:00 Saturday a.m. and I was thinking of coming in my pajamas. Hope that’s cool.

I’m one of those freaky people who doesn’t like jeans, so I’ll probably wear something along the lines of cords, although it wouldn’t be unlike me to wear my yoga pants. The t-shirt is obvious, as I even wear t-shirts to work most days.

And WOO HOO, incidentally. I’m going to Chicago a few days early, so I’m leaving a week from today. !!!

Holy crap, Robin. Do you know how long it took me to HAND SEW thousands of tiny red sequins into the words “Robin Rocks!” on my tee-shirt? Almost as long as it took me to cut them all out of that glittery sheet of metal I ordered from Hong Kong months ago. And let’s not get into how I had to call in Tim Gunn for a thread match consultation…that guy does not fly in for cheap!

I am SO going to Target for a revenge evening bag. And I’ll carry it. Don’t you think I won’t.

You lucky, lucky people who are going to Chicago. I’ll have to live vicariously through all of you, so take lots of pictures and post away when you get back!

Robin–Amazing job in getting this all organized.

Perfect dress code for me (and it is all about me, right?)

I have my jeans, I have my Kidlit Conference T shirt, and now I’m just wondering, do I bring my laptop? This will be my first airplane travel with laptop so I’m a tad nervous.

Eisha, you take any situation and make it more fun, don’t you? Pajamas it is! (Or jeans if you’re feeling fancy.)

Liz B., it is all about you–obviously. I’m bringing my laptop for sure. This is a bloggers’ paradise! Don’t you think you might need to make the 1 AM post?

Vivian and Liz(3-name Liz), I’m so sorry you can ‘t come! I’m sorry anyone who wants to come can’t come. But if it goes well, someone else will take this over and host it year after year after year. So please, everyone, don’t trash your hotel rooms.

Jen, that’s my thinking, too. I figure bloggers feel their dressed up if they have to put on their bras. (Sorry, Patrick and Barry.)

Sara, you’re a maniac. I wish so much you were telling the truth so I could see that.

Adrienne, I’ll be there early, too! Let’s wear yoga or sweat pants for that part!

Kelly, I’m happy you’re so happy with this! I know I’m among my people.

And Alkelda, I wish you could come! But maybe you’ll get your wish and next year it will be in fabulous Seattle where the coffee flows like rain. I like the dress code there.

Bras too? Damn.

Yeah. We’re going to do the pencil test at the door.

Pencil test! LOL.

Now I just have to decide which of my many Threadless.com T-shirts to wear. Maybe “I’m a Noun!” Or the Haiku shirt. Or “Allow Me to Explain Through Interpretive Dance.”

You know what, maybe I’ll just make a MotherReader T-shirt for the occasion. Then I’ll be the one person that people can find.

Very cool designs. Kudos.

Mmm, sequins. I love shiny things!

I thought of making a watat.com t-shirt, but I think I have now officially Waited Too Long, unless I want to do it with a Sharpie, which I guess I shouldn’t rule out. I like Sharpies.

Mother Reader, the interpretive dance one, please.

Little Willow, break another leg with our performance this weekend!

Adrienne, we’ll do Sharpie tattoos. It’ll be classy.

Thanks, Robin!

Adrienne, get this one instead:
http://getinvolved.safehorizon.org/site/PageServer?JServSessionIdr010=qn4ve34325.app5b&pagename=mariska_website_PAC_2007_Tattoo_Page

i just ordered my very cool golf shirt cuz i want to be stylin’ at the conference. thanks herb. love the logo.

Omigod! There are like sixty people signed up for this thing! (And I totally bet we can peer pressure Patrick the Space Lord into it.)

Robin, I don’t know if I’ve said it lately, but I’m in awe of what you’ve done in putting this out there and making it happen. Un-freakin’-believable.

I’ll be there Friday evening through Sunday evening and ready to rock n’ roll, you know, kidslit-wise.

mr–start the rumble–”patrick, patrick, space lord, space lord…” until he bends to our will!

Annette, I ordered my shirt and mug today, too! Somehow doing that makes the conference seem real.

Mother Reader, thank you so much. I’m really looking forward to having everybody in the same room instead of at all of our computers all over the country. What a blast!

Good luck to you and anyone trying to persuade the Space Lord. He claims he’s “too busy” with work. I say no one is too busy to come spend one weekend on a play date with the rest of us, but if a man’s gotta work . . .

Did someone find a peer of mine to pressure me?

I’m bummed. I can’t come to the conference. My in-laws have planned their semi-annual party for that weekend…and since hubs and I missed the Spring shindig, I can’t miss this one.

Someone have a drink for me!

My belief in the Space Lord is shaken. I thought the Space Lord was omnipresent. Oh well another delusion not to worry about, reduce the meds.

Herb, I want you to consider that you are taking the word of Robin - who makes things up for a living.

It is possible that I am attending the conference right now and that I find the 58 women and 4 men absolutely delightful and they have made it on to my list of people not to obliterate in the event of an apocalypse.

I’m just saying that it is possible…

Here’s the thing about Chicago. It’s windy and very challenging to maintain perfect hair.

Oh peerless one there no challenge too great for the Space Lord. Show us your greatness.

Beth! Dude! Who are the in-laws compared to us?

I understand. But you owe us all an appearance at the next one, deal?

What?!?!? No KidLit 2007 Thong?

What will people wear on their heads?

Rule 1 of Cafepress.com - ALWAYS MAKE A THONG AVAILABLE.

BTW - Ummmmm… Ya know…

It’s Tuesday.

Doesn’t something happen on Tuesdays? Long weekend screw something up? Is Wednesday the new Tuesday?

Eep! I COMPLETELY forgot that it’s Tuesday! You’re right–that weekend threw me totally off.

Thank you for reminding me! I’m on it!

Robin,
This sounds so awesome! You did such a great job planning this. I wish things could’ve worked out for me to go! Sigh.

Tuesdays are like Publisher’s Weekly — they happen once a week.

Okay, Robin, you are made of awesome for putting this conference together. Next time, though, I want the Kidlitosphere Pajama-Party Sleepover Extravaganza, where there is nothing organized but toasted marshmallows, booze, rowdy singalongs, and arguments over books. Sure, we can have it in a Chicago hotel.

Vivian, thanks! I so wish you could come!! Next year.

Patrick, maybe you heard: I no longer rise to that bait. I took care of it in my Acknowledgments. Move on to the next screw up of mine–plenty to choose from.

Alkelda, oh my gosh, what a great idea! Is it too late to change the theme of this year’s conference?

Gosh, what did I do…? A little bit of shopping. Not anything really great, but overall I have it pretty good, so I can’t complain.

This week I booked the nicer hotel closer to Niagara Falls even though it cost more. I also figured out our travel plans for our five day road trip through PA to the Falls and it feels good.

Katie, what could possibly be bad about having a generally good life? It doesn’t always have to be bells and whistles (although those are fun, too).

Mother Reader, you know I’m all for spending a little extra to actually get what you want. We all dribble away enough money without really paying attention, so making a choice to spend a little more on purpose to treat yourself–that has to be a good thing.

I was on vacation this week and survived. I sent my husband and kids to the beach so I could read the first three books of Harry Potter without any interruption. Book Three is fabulous.

That’s right, Vivian, aren’t you just starting the whole series now? How nice for you that you don’t have to wait in between for the next installment!

We spoke of you and the upcoming Kidlitosphere conference during the bloggers’ SCBWI panel yesterday!

My list for this week includes:

Work - Usual schedule at the bookstore, with plenty of projects and some feelings of accomplishment. I also updated some websites for clients, new and old alike. Then I was able to speak on a panel with fellow bloggers yesterday, and we had such fun chatting with others and meeting everyone face-to-face.

Current play - We rehearsed all week. I was named stage manager and thus took on a zillion more responsibilities. We had our double-run-through dress rehearsal yesterday, and we are opening tonight.

Also - I talked myself into auditioning for something, then got a callback, then got the part. I’m incredibly flattered. I can’t believe it yet. I think it will sink in during our first read-through, which is next week.

I do so hope that all of these things go well.

Little Willow, congratulations on getting that part! Especially since you had to talk yourself into the audition. What a thrill. And that panel sounds like fun. Will this mean more SCBWI-ers are coming to Chicago?

I’m starting to think that coming out to L.A. for this conference is actually one of the nicest things I’ve EVER done for myself. I mean, honestly. I sat at dinner with my editor and illustrator ’til midnight last night (so I guess it wasn’t the nicest thing I’ve ever done for a waiter, ’cause ours was undoubtedly ready to see us go) but I am gonna feast on that time for a long time to go. Sweet togetherness. And I just listened to the most amazing keynote by Ellen Wittlinger and I’m still sort of crying over it. Plus, I’ve also taken two hot baths since I’ve been here.

Welcome back, Robin!

ah lil’ wil’, don’t you know, they already have!

I ate cake.

And I love TMI, btw.

Also, I perservered and my voice was heard. (Details on my blog. Warning: Not YA friendly. But please read by midnight tonight.)

persevered…

my brain iz fried from teh summer heat.

Another nice thing I did was trek 90+ degree heat all day Thursday at an amusement park with/for my kids.

I’m still recovering from a near heat stroke.

Liz, I wish I could have gone to that conference! It sounds like so much fun. I’m glad you’re having such a wonderful time. Nothing like being inspired by that–you come home so bursting with new ideas.

Annette, we need to see you more often on the blog. That’s all I’m saying.

Heather, I immediately went over and voted for you. Very funny entry! I encourage everyone to go vote for Heather immediately–and not just because she’s our pal. She actually deserves it.

Thank you, Robin! Yes, it sounded as though some people were already planning to attend, while others were interested in learning more about it. Sara Lewis Holmes was in the audience, and she answered questions about it too.

Annette, I hope so!

Yesterday, we went to IKEA, and I bought two reading lamps: one for the other side of the couch, and one for the other side of the bed. Now, everyone can read with enough light. That’s a nice thing I did for myself (and others).

Alkelda, it’s so easy to underestimate the importance of little pleasures like that. I know I’ve spent years making do, when maybe all it would take is a little $15 lamp or a $12 kitchen utensil, etc. But buying even little things like that takes effort and the actual desire to treat yourself to comfort. So for more reasons than I can say, I really, really applaud you for doing that.

And maybe I’m seeing a little of myself in your comment, and thinking about a particular way I’ve been cheap with myself lately. And maybe this is my prompt to fix that. So thank you!

We bought school supplies! I’m such a writer, all the nice school supplies sales make me very happy. Binders, nice pencils, nice pens, hole-reinforcements for notebook paper, those extendable erasers…yaaaaaaaay.

We also got a dog! So far it’s a mixed blessing (we had to leave her for the first time this morning to go to church, and while we were gone she tore up her shot record, my umbrella, and our picture window curtain rod) but I do love her to death. She’s a shepherd-lab with a little bit of dachshund in there somewhere. Her name was Blondie, but we changed it to Bonnie, and so far she’s doing alright with it. We’ve been talking about getting a dog for ages–I was the last holdout, actually, because I once saw my old babysitter’s dog almost tear my best friend’s lip off–but Bonnie’s really mild. Unless, you know, you leave her alone.

She’ll do wonders for my exercise regime, I’m sure, as she loves walks and jogs through the neighborhood. Good stress reliever, that. Especially starting tomorrow, I’ll be needing that.

Miri, a dog? HURRAY!! Sorry she felt the need to destroy a few things to make her point that she doesn’t like being ditched, but how wonderful–you got a dog!!! I’m sure she and you will be in love for as long as you both shall live.

As for the school supplies, aren’t those just the best part of starting a new school year? Everything so crisp and new and fun. I love that ritual. I’m sure you had a great time picking out everything you might possibly want or need.

So does that and the fact that you need a dog to relieve your stress starting tomorrow mean school is already beginning? So soon?

I love talking about how nice I am to me… although sometimes I’m such a jackass.

For the past 5 weeks I have been training for a 5k… which was yesterday… except it wasn’t a 5k… it was 5 miles! Now, if you’re a runner, you might be asking yourself, what’s the big deal? It’s only 2 extra miles. Well, those two extra miles HURT (and I haven’t ran over 3 miles in 5 years)! Plus it was 95 degrees outside. BUT… I ran the whole thing and eventually finished (although the only three people that finished after me were over 60 and on the heavier side). So although I’m so sore I can’t walk today, I’m really proud of myself for running that race!

Oh, and I crashed a wedding reception! It was awesome! I totally recommend you try it at least once! =)

Yep. School starts tomorrow. EEK!

But then, this is the backward South. We do everything weird. Usually school starts on a Friday, though–this is the first time they’ve ever tossed us in on a Monday.

And in my Honors Lit class I have a test on Fahrenheit 451. Double EEK!

(For those just tuning in–high school. What fun, eh?)

Christen, that’s fantastic! Good for you! Congratulations! And who cares who came before or after you–you did something most of us sitting here reading the blog haven’t or won’t do, so you’re already way ahead of the pack. And crashing a wedding reception–you’re on your own with that one. I can barely bring myself to attend parties I’m invited to!

Miri, good luck in the new school year. Fear not your Honors Lit class–you’re such a great reader and writer you’ll have no trouble at all. How many of your classmates have a blog at all, let alone one as literary and thoughtful as yours?

Hi from LA! My nice thing was that I’ve been taking breaks for myself all throughout the conference. Yesterday, I took a nap AND went shopping for new jeans. I felt so refreshed that I was able to really enjoy the By The Light of the Silvery Moon Party without feeling one bit tired. And I danced. Because I LOVE to dance. And I wore sparkly earrings.

Sara, so glad you’re having such a wonderful time! Love the sparkly earrings–nice touch. And especially love the nap part, because those conferences can be so overwhelming with all the new people and the life-altering information overload. A nap sounds like the nicest thing ever.

Sounds SO fantastic. Chicago is my hometown (well, the suburbs of Chicago actually), so it would be especially fun to go. Don't think I'll make it though. I'll be anxious to hear everyone's stories and such upon return though! Thanks for spreading the word!

Robin,

I got as far as reserving the hotel for Saturday night. But my plane plans are giving me difficulty. I won’t be able to land before 2PM at the earliest on Saturday. Any chance we could plan one event for Sunday morning, so I won’t feel like I missed most of it? Because of course, it’s all about me.

Except when it’s about Patrick.

:)

Nancy, I think that can be arranged. I know some people are leaving Sunday morning, but it will all work out.

So glad you’re coming!

Ha! I totally was coming with or without a Sunday event. But I’d still love to do a Sunday event if we can.

Gotta go book the flights now. I have to take a prop plane from Bar Harbor to Boston. Fun!

Oh, Nancy, I love Bar Harbor. Prop planes, not so much. But I’m so glad you’re doing to make it!

Robin, I didn’t get the Yahoo group invite…

Gotcah, Gwenda and Jen. Thanks for letting me know!

I’d hoped to have stayed for part of Sunday, but my choices to leave were either early Sunday or late Sunday. So it goes!

Alkelda, as long as we’re all there for dinner Saturday night, the rest is just icing.

Oh, golly. I hear ya on needing full yeses or nosirees. It’s killing me but I think I’m going to have to wait and come to the second one (maybe we should do that one in Austin?!?!?) I am blowing my pocketbook to go to L.A. in August.

Sigh. I’m going to keep reading vicariously here, though. With admiration. And envy. Sigh again.

Just posting to say I just confirmed my plane & hotel reservations. I’ll be arriving late Friday afternoon & leaving early Sunday afternoon. Yay!

Yay, Liz B.! Keep trying, Liz in Ink!

T-Shirts? There might be a T-Shirt? Oh my gosh, I have to figure this out.

Camille, I knew I’d hit some soft spots with that one. I’m a sucker for t-shirts, too. And coffee mugs, but I think that will have to be year #2.

I don’t know if this is the place to RSVP, but wanted to let you know…I think I have a speaking engagement that weekend, checking on it and will get back to you, but if I am at all able I would love to be involved!!! If I have to go on Saurday, maybe I can do something special and fun on Friday?

Esme, this is as good a place as any to RSVP. I’ll put you on the tentative list. And if you can’t make it on Saturday, there will be some of us in on Friday night. Come have pizza!

Red dress, eh? Boy, you make me sound all fancy dancy. All right then. I’ll just drape myself over all the furniture for the duration of the conference, Manhattan-style.

No Yahoo Group invite have I gotten quite yet. I’ll e-mail you, Robin.

Hi-ho again, it’s looking good for being free on the date, and PlanetEsme.com would like to sponsor a special event in honor of so many notables coming to Chicago…can you or someone else coordinating this conference give me a holla at my e-mail, esme[at]ripco[dot]com? I’d be happy to give you a call with my idea. Thanks!

We’re so on the same wave length. Yesterday I was going to write you about the cost and what to do about it. Of course then I got distracted by some pesky library patrons who wanted - of all things - help, and didn’t get back to the thought.

I think $40 is quite reasonable, esp. considering the sweet deal you got on the hotel. Of course, now I really expect John Green to show up. It hit me how close his new home is to Chicago, so it should be a breeze for him.

I’ll call today to reserve a room, but I’m holding off on plane tickets until we work out our child care situation. Good job on this whole project, Robin. I am in awe.

Thanks, Mother Reader! What a nice thing to say!

Oh, man, I still don’t know if I can come, but seeing how well it’s taking shape, I’m just dying to.

$40 bucks is imminently reasonable — as is the hotel rate. And I’ve actually conferenced at that hotel before, I believe. There’s a conveniently located liquor store just up the way.

Gwenda, ha. I’ll make sure there’s wine at dinner, so never fear.

Katie, do it! It will count as your nice thing to do for Katie that week.

Yes, $40 is more than reasonable, and the room rate is awesome (i.e. even *I* can afford it). How do you want to gather the funds? Should we send a check your way soon? You really should collect in advance.

Yeah, Adrienne, a check if probably the way to go. If and when we get a Yahoo group going, I’ll post my address and you guys can send those to me.

As I always say, Gwenda -

Let’s get lickered up and done write some kiddies bookes.

I just called the hotel, and the “Kidlit Conference” isn’t on the books yet, but I did get a room reservation and rate request. I have a room with two double beds in it, so if someone wants to room with me (female, please!), shoot me an email.

P.S. And yeah, I’ll give you 40 bucks!

Thanks for letting me know about the hotel, Alkelda. I changed the phone number and I’m taking care of making sure it’s in their system!

Patrick, remind me to tell you the story of the time I accidentally got in a cab with a drunk would-be kid lit author. He wanted to tell me all about his graphic novel starring South American guerrillas who were really (you guessed it) gorillas.

At least he was polite enough to roll down the window when he belched.

I’m in for the $40. Will send.

Thanks for doing all this, Robin. Has someone committed to setting up the Yahoo group? If not, I can ask my personal tech support, my husband, about doing that for us, though right now I have no clue. Just let me know.

Jules, if your tech man could spare us the time, I’d love him/you forever.

I’ll ask him.

What I typed before — amidst my two tween-nephews jumping around me — didn’t make sense, now did it? What I meant is that *I* have no clue as to how to set up such a group, but Blaine will. So, I’ll ask him later.

I can set up a Yahoogroup if needed. Just let me know. Whomever is setting it up, please be sure that it’s a closed group, whereby people have to write to an administrator to verify that s/he’s actually a human being with an interest in the conference, and not some bozo spammer or cyber-stalker.

Thanks, Alkelda. Excellent tip.

Hi Robin.

I’m happy to chip in $40.

Is there any other way I can help, with expenses or other details?

Robin, I have an important question. What time are things starting on Saturday? I was planning to fly in from Maine that day, but from your message above, I’m worried that maybe I’ll have already missed it by the time I get there. Are the sessions on Saturday or Sunday? Or both?

Nancy, thanks for the offer, but $40 will do it.

Does this mean I can move you from the tentative list to the definite?

And as for event times, I’m thinking we’ll start the first one on Saturday around 9:00, and have a few in the morning, a few in the afternoon, then a break before dinner. So if you fly in Saturday morning you may miss some of it, but you can slip in whenever you get there.

Robin, like MR, I was thinking that as this expands, people should be helping you with the cost. But I hadn’t gotten my act together to offer. $40 sounds very reasonable to me, and I’m happy to send you a check.

I just booked a room at the hotel, and they did have the conference block listed. That’s a great rate! And I personally love it being out near the airport, because I have an early flight back out on Sunday.

I just watched Giada’s Weekend Get-Away show and she was visiting Chicago. Oh, I want to go! I am still working on this.

Oh, good, Jen. Glad that hotel works out for you.

Camille, I’ve put you on the tentatives list. I’d love to move you to the positives!

Barry and I would certainly be willing to put together a program “Exploring the Possibilities: Relationships Between Librarians and Local Authors”

I crack myself up. It’s so sad.

Wow. I’m impressed. I was just going to crack stupid jokes and maybe throw Mo’s name around a lot. This seems kind of official.

My thinking is that they’d be more like forums or meetings than workshops. More everyone sharing ideas and less instruction, though it would be helpful for different people to take the lead on areas in which they excel. In that case, there might need to be a “Cracking Stupid Jokes and Name-Dropping for Fun and Profit” workshop, because that’s all I could lead with any authority.

Okay, MR, that will be your panel.

I think you’re right–these are forums rather than lectures. Unless there are some topics that people want to hear from others outside the kidlitosphere about–like that suggestion about how publishers feel about the blogosphere.

Molly, *sigh.*

I’m not sure how I feel about workshops. It seems to change the whole tone of the thing. The “top down” nature of workshops doesn’t seem to me to really fit with the democratic nature of the Kidlitosphere. However, I could really see us having some roundtable discussions on things like how we - bloggers, publishers, authors, booksellers, librarians - in the kidlit world can best work together, and how we can encourage literacy in kids (Jen?)

macrame.

Sheila Ruth, well said. You’re right–they need to be forums or discussions, not workshops. Thanks for that.

Annette, you’re on your own. Now if you’d said pottery . . .

Yes, I would love to talk about that Sheila. Of course. And I’m completely with you on the discussions being round-table type talks. I think that we share common interests, and it will be good to talk about them.

Hmmm. Macrame sounds fun to me.

Robin, thanks for clarifying. I really wasn’t correcting you so much as musing out loud. And reading back through the comments, I see that MotherReader said essentially the same thing before I did. I think the whole thing sounds great and I sure hope I can come.

And I’m all for inviting authors (and publishing people) who aren’t necessarily bloggers. I think it would really help us get some synergistic discussions going.

Here’s some more discussion ideas for you:

- Sex in teen/tween lit: pros and cons, where do we draw the line, and how can we help kids and parents find books at an appropriate level

- Addressing the needs of under-represented groups in kid/teen lit.

Thanks, Sheila Ruth (should I call you Sheila or Sheila Ruth? I never know with multiple first names). Those are some good topics.

And I meant “correcting” as in “yeah, she’s right,” not as in “SR was picking at me.”

If I can do a storytelling program, the Kidlitosphere Conference can be a tax deduction for me.:) I’ve not bought my plane ticket yet (I’ll have to wait awhile for that for $$ reasons), but I’m really, really hoping to go.

Alkelda, we all hope you can go, too. I keep hearing that Southwest has some great prices to Chicago. Maybe see?

I’m checking out Expedia now.

So far, the plane ticket prices look good. I’m going to wait to finalize plans until I find out about the hotel rates and such. Yippee!

I’m still looking at airfare & trying to figure that out. Did I miss it; do we have an idea of hotel(s)?

Hey, Alkelda, remember that Southwest doesn’t show up on Expedia or any of the other travel sites. They have their own website at southwest.com.

Glad you and Liz are looking! Liz, we’re working on the hotel right now. Hope to have that sorted out by Monday.

Southwest also uses cattleprods to get you seated on the plane in a timely fashion.

Some people would pay extra for that.

Actually, Sheila is my first name and Ruth is my last name (married name, actually). Like Babe Ruth (no relation). A lot of people get mixed up, and some people just call me Ruth, so I pretty much answer to either. But you can just call me Sheila.

Thanks for clarifying, Sheila!

Patrick, I’ve been a moo many times in my life. It’s not so bad.

are we all clear that “macrame” is code word for “other”?

Hey! What about inviting Debbie Reese to be a keynote speaker? She blogs, and she’s right in Chicago:

http://americanindiansinchildrensliterature.blogspot.com/

When this was a bunch of crazy people getting together for a potluck dinner it sounded cool, and possibly even worth a road trip.

No offense, folks, but to me, a person whose only connection to kidlit is having a run lately on website design jobs for kidlit/YA authors, this whole thing sounds about as appetizing as a root canal. I don’t even go to conferences in my OWN industry.

I’m now a definite no.

I hope y’all have fun.

That’s okay, BJ. Except for the root canal thing.

bj, i too am a civilian, actually MORE of a civilian than youself and I’M going, and i was kinda hopin’ we’d be roomies (sigh). think of the sad sight, poor little me, alone, on the train, going to the zoo and art institute and frank llyod wright’s house, all by myself (sigh)–can’t wait!

Aw, Annette, make me feel bad, why don’tcha?

You’ll just have to come with Robin to NYC someday, and we’ll all get to run away from a raid together while buying knockoffs at an illegal shop in Chinatown. Or something.

I don’t know when people are flying in, but I’ll be in Chicago a couple days early and was thinking it might be fun to get some folks together to do something along the lines of eating pizza and going to Improv Olympic or something on Friday night. (Last time I went to an IO show, I laughed myself right into an asthma attack, which was GREAT! I’d love to do it again; that’s what inhalers were made for!)

I’d love to talk censorship in kidslit…especially after the whole scrotum thing. And I love the idea of reader’s advisory for the tween set.