Like everyone else on the planet, I was disappointed by long planned events that had to be cancelled because of the pandemic. For me, the biggest was the New England regional SCBWI conference that was supposed to be held the first weekend of May. It would have been my very first conference, and I was nervously excited to go. I signed up for classes, printed out business cards, bought a new overnight bag, and of course started this blog and website last summer in eager anticipation. We all know what happened next.
But then the Summer Spectacular flyer landed in my inbox, and while I am always in favor of people over technology, I eagerly signed up for it. It was so easy! No plane ticket or expensive hotel stay required, and Judy Blume is going to speak to me over Zoom right here in my office! Arthur Levine is going to interview Philip Pullman! And I’m going to witness so many interesting conversations with the talented people who work in the world of Children’s Literature. I have been looking forward to this all summer.
I haven’t been able to write much of anything since March because I have had to teach and take care of my special needs daughter, but I know seeing and listening to so many creative and talented people will inspire me to start again. It won’t be the same as being at a conference in person, but what a gift to be able to do this from the comfort of home. I have been inspired by all of the creativity that has come out of such dark times. And there is always next year to try again in person. My business cards and snazzy new overnight bag will be ready. And so will I.
