The Conference Blues (No Longer)

I've been to many, many book and reading conferences over the past ten years, but it just occurred to me last weekend that though I was technically at these conferences, I didn't really attend them. Usually, I am there as a vendor, and I am there to WORK. I work setting up, I work all throughout the conference days, and then I pack up and move out. I look at all the happy attendees exclaiming about how much fun they're having, what great sessions they went to, and who they talked to. I feel like everyone's having a better time than me, and it never occurred to me before that it was because I was working in the exhibit hall and didn't get to experience any of it!

Last weekend, however, I actually attended a conference for my own personal edification-- the Los Angeles A Cappella Festival at UCLA. I had the most amazing time! I learned so much! I was inspired to make music and to listen to music! I learned from people who are the best at what they do (the picture on the left is the Q&A with The House Jacks-- I had only my cameraphone with me)! I was energized and recharged! Now I knew what it felt like to be one of those teachers or librarians that I see at the conferences we attend.

Not only did the conference inspire me musically, but it also inspired me professionally and personally. I decided that I wanted to do more, reach out more, and communicate more with the children's lit world. Put myself out in the blogsphere, the internet, the world, more, and participate more.

Plus, when I go to conferences to work now, I can remember what it was like to be in an amazing environment with likeminded colleagues, all revved up and inspired, and I can relate to everyone to stops at our table or booth, and show them with enthusiasm all these great books!