Thanks, Jilli. But I think that as I was hesitating anyway, I'd probably feel a little self conscious wearing it, which isn't a good look on anyone.

I did get the following for a big work do next month:

This dress: [link]

With this wrap (to get me past my arm issues): [link]

Now to find shoes . . .

Anybody have experience teaching/tutoring with Kaplan or something similar?

I did training with Kaplan, but I never actually taught a class. I enjoyed it.

smon - a friend of mine works for them here in Michigan- a director or something. I could hook you two up via email if you'd like.

Yikes, Fred Pete!

t will be paying attention to smonster's NOLA maneuverings, lest an opportunity to piggyback on it arises.

But isn't a big part of the equation luck? The manuscript just happens to be the right thing at the right time when someone's looking at it.

Yeah, it certainly can be. However, it still has to have something to set it apart from the others. If it's not distinguishable in terms of concept, then the craft and storytelling have to be absolutely impeccable or at least have the "It" factor to set it apart and make a publisher take a risk on it. Like I said, is what it is.

My biggest problem is I'm ambitious and driven, sometimes to a fault. I know I'm a good writer-- now, what does it take to be great?

(And y'all understand that here is one of the few places I feel secure enough to let loose with that sort of commentary-- that you guys will get what I mean and not think I'm a raging megalomaniac, right?)

Monster baby!

Anyone else hearing "Dead Man's Party"?

Not at all, Barb.

smon - a friend of mine works for them here in Michigan- a director or something. I could hook you two up via email if you'd like.

Yes, please, Aims!

Barb, have you considered Breadloaf?

Thank you, Pix! I was trying to remember Breadloaf. It's certainly a consideration-- especially if I keep to my idea of waiting out this year before committing to something that intensive. While it's not an MFA program, it's certainly a biggie. I still think I'm going to look for a 3-5 day program that's on the western side of the U.S. so I can dip my toes in. I found one that was really promising, but it unfortunately coincides with RWA National. Skipping National is certainly a possibility, however, since I do have the book coming out in November, I don't want to lose potential publicity time.

Never easy, is it?

I think Lewis' suggestion is a good one, Barb. Folks I know have done the low res MFA or a six(or shorter)-week intensive retreats, and all of them felt benefits. Which path each person took depended on how long they could be away from work or family, if that was a factor, or how focused, exclusively, and intently they wanted to work. Whichever you choose, no doubt you'll benefit from it.

Calli, I *love* the purple butterfly dress. And honestly? With that spectacular wrap you could wear almost anything and still look exquisitely dressed.

GC, that boy knows how to work a camera. Little handsome man.

Oh, and bt, when you come 'round again, Ryan is a handsome charmer who's well aware he's the focus of his family's eyes.

Buffistas make gorgeous babies!

Barb - have you thought of making one of your characters sparkly?