RWA 2013: Atlanta Day 3

The conference officially began today. Loads of workshops and speakers were scheduled, including the lunch with key note speaker, Cathy Maxwell.

The jam-packed ballroom.

Cathy’s powerful speech had us all laughing and crying. The theme was, “You ARE good enough.” That, as writers, we all doubt ourselves and whether we’re good enough for this business. (Even Susan Elizabeth Phillips still feels fear, believe it or not, according to her presentation at TGN Retreat.) But Cathy’s message was to push on through the fear and self-doubt.

After lunch, Diana and I went to the The Ritz in Buckhead, along with the Dashing Duchesses, for High Tea. It was fun, and I met a lot of talented Historical authors.

Yum!

The end of the day had some publisher cocktail parties, an ice cream social, and the KOD “Death by Chocolate” party. Here’s the Kensington author reception early on, before it got really crowded.

I can’t believe I’m here!

Talked to a lot of Kensington authors here, including Terri Brisbin, Maggie Robinson, Tina Gabrielle, my new BFF Melissa Cutler, my fellow GH nominee Sonali Dev, Ella Quinn, and others I wish I could remember.

Tomorrow, more workshops and Kristan Higgins for lunch.