This year’s NE-SCBWI Conference (my sixth) was different for me. As the On-the-Spot Critique Coordinator, I was one of numerous volunteers responsible for making a successful conference. In my position, I felt deeply obligated to the attendees, wanting to facilitate proper connections to editors/agents, and I’d promised these same professionals that I’d do my best to secure them additional critiques. In truth, I was scared. Since becoming the On-the-Spot Critique Coordinator less than a month ago, I have secretly fretted, while my daily early-morning writing time turned into early-morning e-mail communication, chart-making, and teaching myself how to make a spreadsheet. (I am also a committee co-chair for the upcoming New Jersey SCBWI Conference.) My manuscripts lay untouched; my muse went on strike.
Preparing for the conference reminded me of my earlier years in the business of writing for children, when I was unsure and questioned my abilities. Self-doubt hinders your growth as an artist. So I stopped thinking about What Might Not Happen (that the on-the-spot critiques would be a failure) and I began to believe that I could, indeed, pull this off. But to do this, I had to call on my Inspired Frame-of-Mind, which is strong, determined, and follows the muse with much delight, like a kitten chasing an unraveling ball of red yarn. I write what my characters tell me, and on some level, believe they are the ones shaping their stories, not me. I continue to struggle with writing for my blog, for that voice comes from a different place, where self-criticism has rented a tiny room and ignores my weekly eviction notice.
So in my Inspired Frame-of-Mind, I faced the task of being a successful conference coordinator: I worked diligently and focused on being positive, while doing everything possible to sell these critiques. The bar to succeed is set high due to the tireless efforts of our region’s longtime coordinators, who have given so much of their time over the years: Marilyn Salerno, Joyce Shor Johnson, Kathryn Hulick, Melissa Hed. Valarie Giogas. Laura Pauling. Melissa Stewart. Casey Girard. Betty Brown. Sally Riley. Jean Woodbury. Linda Brennan. Jennifer Carson. Joannie Duris. Anna Boll. Jennifer O’Keefe. Greg Fishbone. Francine Puckly. Margo Lemieux. And Shirley Pearson, who I hope can one day step out from behind the registration table to pursue her own dreams. I apologize in advance for not listing every name, though my gratitude is intended for all. Thank you! The NE-SCBWI Conference reflects your efforts, selfless dedication, and enthusiasm for our wonderful community. A community filled
Thank you for all of your hard work, Betsy! Beautiful post, as always.
Jo
What a wonderful recap! It is a great reminder of the weekend we just came from. Thank you Betsy for all of your hard work and sharing your experience. It was a pleasure to meet you, I hope we can chat more at a future conference!
I enjoyed your blog voice. I felt right along with you, planning a conference is nerve wracking but, we did it!
Thanks, Casey, for all your hard work! I look forward to seeing you again! The conference could not have happened without you. Betsy
You are too sweet, Jo. Your comments always make my day! Betsy
My pleasure, Joyce! You are an inspiration with everything you do. I appreciate your warm welcome, and I look forward to working with you again next year! NE-SCBWI is lucky to have you. Betsy
Great post, Betsy! Now we all go back to work…inspired and rejuvenated!!
xo sarah
Thanks to you, Sarah, I have new revision tools. Your novel academy rocked! (I will work on your post in a few days.) xo Betsy
Betsy, it sounds like you had a fantastic time and did a REALLY good job as the On-the-Spot Critique Coordinator
You’re such a talented person, good-hearted person—an inspiration in many ways. Thanks for sharing and I look forward to our time together, too 
And although I enjoyed EVERY word you said here, I have to tell you, this metaphor is priceless!…”for that voice comes from a different place, where self-criticism has rented a tiny room and ignores my weekly eviction notice.” Great writer, you are
Betsy, you were amazing at your job as on-the-spot critique coordinator. And this is a beautifully written blog that reminds us all of the conference inspiration that could be felt throughout the halls and rooms of the Sheraton. We need only go back to your blog when moments of doubt creep in.
Betsy–what a wonderful post! I wish we’d had a chance to talk more–I hadn’t realized you were in Novel Academy with me! Of course, by Sunday my brain was completely overloaded. Thanks for putting into words the things so many of us feel about NESCBWI. Good luck with your conference in NJ!
Thank you for this wonderful recap. It is so reassuring to read about your emotional ups and downs and know I’m not alone. I agree, the conference was a big “UP”!
Thanks, Joyce, for all your support and encouragement!! It was my pleasure!
Thank you, Donna! You are too sweet. I look forward to our weekend together in June! Betsy
What lovely words, Carol. I hope you made good connections at the conference. Nice to chat with you! Betsy
My brain was overloaded too. And thank you for your kind words! Novel Academy was awesome! Betsy
No, Nancy, you are not alone. Remember this. Keep the faith, and keep writing. Hugs, Betsy