I have to say I have been flying high since I found out one of my articles will be printed in the KC Star Neighborhood News section on November 4, 2009.  "The Pressures of the Perfectly Precious Princess Party" was accepted a few days ago.  Can't wait to add the "link!"

I have started a new project which is exciting and overwhelming.  My father and I were allowed in the vault at the Dyche Museum of Natural History at the University of Kansas earlier this week. We were granted access because my father is the grandson of Charles Dean Bunker, one of the curators that worked side by side with Dyche when they created the panorama.

When entering the building, I thought it possible a book idea might arise; but I was so moved by my great-grandfather's story and contribution to the field, I knew someone needed to share his story.  Non-fiction is not my favorite genre/style, but the story needs to be written accurately.

A lot of research is needed, but I will make the time to find the facts.  Thankfully, my father has agreed to assist me in the research.  It is a tireless process.  Information will be comprised from his remaining field journals from the early 1900's and other journals and articles discovered so far.

I attended the Kansas SCBWI Conference this past weekend and it's amazing how inspirational these events are.  What a great collection of guest speakers and writers.  I wish for more time in the day to get all of my new ideas on paper. 

Bruce Coville started off the event on Friday night.  He is quite the dynamic speaker!   I don't know if he got me more excited about writing or saving the world!  His closing speech made me feel as if I had been "churched!" 

"Voice" was Coville's first topic and no surprise even someone as brilliant as he can't teach or describe "voice" effectively.  I think if someone could come up with the recipe for "voice," they should immediately get an agent and a book deal.

Eve Adler, an Associate Editor with Henry Holt Books for Young Readers, gave many helpful pointers on how to avoid scaring off an editor.  She says they are looking for educational books primarily.

Ruta Rimas was enjoyable, but didn't feel she has much interest in picture books.  If you have a MG or YA about a cat or doughnuts, you might be in!

The big talk was about the agent, Ted Malawer who left Firebrand Literary Agency since it shut its doors a few weeks prior to this conference.  Everyone was abuzz about the "dirt" before his talk!  He put it all to rest when he announced he joined up with Upstart Crow Literary with his old co

I rarely get an opportunity to write during the weekend.  It's a pity because I truly enjoy the time with my keyboard.  I was doing some research and came across a quote that tickled me.  Wanted to add it to my site...
"Writing is a socially acceptable form of Schizophrenia."  
                                                           --E. L. Doctorow
If my friends knew how many voices I heard in my head (characters, I like to call them), they would be quite concerned!!  Never enough time to get all of their dialogue down on paper.  Some day...?