I’m super excited this weekend as in three sleeps (yes, I have young kids so countdown in sleeps), I’ll be jetting off on a plane (or rather two) to the Gold Coast to the annual Romance Writers of Australia conf. To say I can’t wait is an understatement. The only reason I haven’t packed yet is that I have little space in my house to keep the suitcase out and also because this weekend, I’ve made a quick trip south with my Mum to visit my darling Gran who is 93 and not very well.
But as soon as I get home tonight, it’s all systems go for packing and organising my trip away. I’m going for four and a half days but probably need about twenty outfits in that time. The conference is just so jam-packed with goodness and socialising and learning. From Thursday morning (when my first ever Author Day begins), I’m busy almost non-stop. One friend on Facebook said she might have to book time to have a shower and I know exactly what she means. I’m working out when I’ll have time simply to wash and straighten my hair 
But I’m not complaining at all!!
It’s only once a year I get to get together with my writing friends and I want to make the absolute most of it. This year, I’m particularly looking forward to:
- The ARRA book-signing event because it’ll be the first time I’ve ever been on the signing side of the tables.
- The Harlequin dinner and catching up with my publisher.
- Seeing my bestest writing friends and just spending some time talking (okay and drinking) with them.
- On Friday I’m spending the morning at the day spa with Cathryn Hein and Fiona Lowe and this is something I’ve been looking forward to for months.
- The Awards Dinner on Saturday night, which is a time to celebrate the achievements of RWA members, and eat and drink!
- Meeting friends I’ve met on Facebook and Twitter this year but have not yet met in person. There’s a few I’ll be giving a massive hug to when I first spot them
- The workshops – and gleaning wisdom from well-established authors.
I promise to update Facebook and Twitter regularly with what’s happening at conference and I’ll TRY to remember to take photos to share as well. Before I go, I’ll leave you with a few photos from previous confs, to get us ALL in the mood:
Conf 2011, pre cocktail party with Becca J Heath, Jackie Ashendon, and Robyn Thomas
Drinks at a conf – can’t remember which one
Awards Dinner – my fab table – RWA conf 2011.
Me with the fabulous Cathryn Hein
Rachael, I think the level of anticipation and excitement is the same all over the country. Can’t wait to meet you!
I think you’re right! I feel like a kid at Christmas!!
Rach, I have 4 sleeps! But I’ve packed (mostly). See you on Thursday
LOL – I’m not surprised you are more organised than me
See ya soon!
I can’t believe you are all going to be so close yet I won’t be meeting you!!!
Enjoy! I hope it’s more than you are hoping for. Xxx
It sucks Michelle! You’ll have to make plans for next year. x
It’s going to be very fun!! Looking forward to meeting you.
Right back at ya
Getting exciting now!!!
Yepityep!
Squeal!!!! So jealous, wish I could be there! I expect special in-depth coverage from you!!
One day you’ll have to come to our conf and I’ll have to go to yours. x
I’ll be doing a fan-girl moment to get you to sign my book – if you can squeeze me in your busy schedule that is
Oh my Kez – I’m just so delighted and honoured that anyone would want to act fan girl around me. I think I’LL be the fan-girl just so excited that you want me to sign your book. So, yes, that’s a yes to squeezing you in. Can’t wait to see you. x
I’m a fan girl!! Hehe. Lol on those pictures… Can’t wait to see you m’dear! Going to spend up in the duty free on nice bubbles to toast your success!