Monday Blurb: KidLitCon 2011 – September in Seattle

Wow! September in Seattle celebrating all the things I love … autumn, friends, and childrens & Young Adult books, authors, and illustrators.

Buried too deep in a post last week, I mentioned that planning for the fifth annual KidLitCon was underway. Last year I couldn’t go because of a family commitment, but I left room in the budget so I wouldn’t miss it this year. Yes, it is just that special. I’ve only been to one other (Washington, DC), but the experience was so wonderful that KidLitCon goes on my annual short list of conferences to attend. Why? Glad you asked.

1. Camaraderie – KidLitCon not only gives me a chance to put names with faces and chat with rock-star bloggers and catch up with friends, it is a time to renew my love of blogging about children’s and Young Adult literature. Every so often, I struggle with whether/not my blog matters or whether I have time to keep it up … KidLitCon reminds me I’m not alone in that struggle for balance and that there is no one answer!

2. Experience – I’m one of those people who believe that you should learn something new every day. My social networking began with a blog almost eight years ago, and I still feel like a novice. This is an opportunity to learn from others. This is a very social, collegial group who views itself as a network. We share our experiences, best practices, and even the “oopses,” all in the interest of supporting each other.

3. Stretch my comfort zone – I am an introvert with a capital I! I enjoy my solitary past-times … as I’ve said many times, I could live in a library. By myself. KidLitCon gives me the nudge I need to come out of my shell … talk with people whom I’ve connected with online via various media; socialize and relax; and (not to be underestimated) carry on a conversation without hearing “Mom” about four words in.

In a word, KidLitCon is about fellowship – the opportunity to share, grow, renew, and rededicate yourself to your craft. It is unlike any other conference or seminar I attend, which makes it all the more attractive and valuable.

Two items of note: Go Here to REGISTER for the 5th Annual KidLitCon and go here to offer proposals for presentations!

Thanks to organizers Colleen Mondor and Jackie Parker who are working tirelessly to make this a grand event (have you seen the hotel … that we get the run of?!)

Hope to see you there!