Join the Two Writing Teachers blog for Tuesdays Slice of Life Challenge.
This weekend I attended my first ever SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) regional conference in Houston. I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was nervous. I thought maybe I was jumping into a place I would not belong, a pond made only for big fish. My fears were relieved almost immediately when I met Caroline walking across the street to the Westin. She told me how scared she was the first time, so she decided she would always find a new person and be welcoming. How great for me. We found a place at a table together, and everyone started chatting and exchanging cards.
I was asked, “Are you an author or an illustrator?”
“Uh, well…”
I said with confidence, “I am an author.”
Then I giggled. “Yes, this is my first time.”
Our first presenter was the illustrator Kelly Light. I fell in love with her. She put us all at ease with her humor and her very real story about her struggle to find herself and live her dream. I was moved to tears by the end. Her first book is adorable, Louise Loves Art.
At her signing, she gave out stickers. I wore my favorite sticker on Sunday to have some courage to “Be Fierce…So Feline…So Fantastic!”
Fierce feline sticker on my journal with my fierce feline, Mimi.
Amidst the inspiring speakers and the chatting with new friends, I had an editor’s critique of my middle grade work in progress. My palms were sweaty and my stomach was churning, but I walked in bravely. The editor was calm and respectful. She did not treat me as a total idiotic-what-do-you-think-you-are-doing writer. However, I have a lot of work to do. I have hard decisions to make. Revisions to write. But my work is viable. This work is doable. I will not be sending in a manuscript any time soon. I know I am not ready; however, I am a fish in the pond. I can swim freely alongside the other fish. I am one of them. I am an author.
This is so very exciting, Margaret. You are most definitely on your way – and so much further along on your writing journey than most of us! 🙂 You will definitely be a published author some day. I can’t wait!
Congratulations on being so brave and declaring yourself to the public. It is a very hard thing to do, just like writing and putting it out there!
I just got an article published for the first time and can entirely relate to the expectation of what-do-you-think-you-are-doing in response to my writing.
Nice to know it’s not just me! Keep going!
This is a fierce and brave post, Margaret. Thanks for sharing this journey. I take my first steps this weekend. Your words give me courage.
Congratulations on growing in confidence and determination–can’t wait to read your book someday!
Isn’t perspective funny?!?! I am going to confess something right now. I felt like that about YOU. I admire your writing so much!! You certainly belong there. I agree with Holly…can’t wait to see where this journey takes you!!
Your comment is so sweet. When do we finally realize we have crossed the line from amateur to expert? I don’t think I ever will.
So wonderful that you went, Margaret. I am hoping to do something with the group this summer, finally. I am proud of you for that step, & look at the marvelous time you had! Best wishes on your novel!
You are leaning in! So brave. I look to you in awe and yet your humility and bravery pushes you for more. Go girl, be fierce, be feline!
I love this, Margaret. You are a fish. 🙂 Congratulations.
You make me smile, Margaret, the way you jump into to everything with such passion and purpose.
This has taken a long time. I’ve been writing all my life. I wrote in my diary when I was 13, “I want to be a writer. If only someone would give me the courage.” Even now, this courage is hard to find, but I know that it comes from me, not from someone else.
I think you have harnessed that courage, Margaret. I would rather be a fearful, courageous author and networker, than a wisher of things as I sit on the sidelines–you are the fearful, courageous author! Keep moving through the fear to great things
Yes, Margaret, you are an author, and a wonderful author at that. I’m so glad to have you in my pond and my life as a fellow writer and friend!
I enjoyed reading Blessen and love the beauty of Illuminate. I look forward to future books. That girl who wrote in her journal is finding her courage. Keep reaching for her dream.
Of course you are an author, Margaret! Your work and your courage are a source of inspiration to me. I know you’ll accomplish your dreams!
Margaret, This is so engagingly written & will encourage many people to attend SCBWI & other conferences. And anyone reading your lyrical & exquisite writing here would not have doubted your pondworthyness. Brava!
(I also think people who have already been to such a conference walk in weak-kneed, as I do.)
[…] The logo for SCBWI is a kite. I set out my kite last weekend. I found out it needs a few repairs, but it may fly one day. I have hope. The Houston conference gave me hope, but I also connected with other writers on this journey and that is what I celebrate today: Connections. I wrote about the conference for Slice of Life Tuesday. […]
Love hearing about your conference and seeing the pic of Mimi beside your journal. She’s gorgeous. Congrats on your courage in taking this big step!