Okay, for those of you who have signed up for Conversations and Connections -- reminder -- it's this weekend! Reading on Friday night, conference on Saturday.

I WILL be at Saturday's conference, some come find me and say HI!

Also, in getting ready -- I'd get there early to find street parking. That's my plan. Also, pick out your sessions ahead of time, so you can make good thought out choices.

Remember last year was the first year, this year will likely be less loosey-goosey.

Remember to bring materials with you for speed dating. I would bring more than one option -- cause you don't know who you will be put with for the "date" and I for one would not pitch the same story to like, Painted Bird Quarterly, as I would to say, Barrelhouse. Are you familiar enough with the mags to know what to bring? There's still time to do research!

Also, last year the editors were confused by the 2 page thing and many folks were asked "where's the rest of it?" Conceivably that won't happen this year, but it could, so have the REST of the story with you, just in case!

Also, be prepared to have more than one "date." Extra "dates" are only $5, and you don't know how you'll feel after the first one. So bring some money, bring some stories, just in case.

Okay, got it? Also, note that lunch is not offered -- you are on your own. After over 10 years working in that neighborhood, I'd recommend walking UP 17th, there's nothing for about a block to P and then there's tons of stuff. Or you can trek back to the circle, but it's a longer walk than it appears at first.

See you Saturday!

Hildie