Wow! This was the view from Belinda’s (McBride) and my room, although this tiny picture doesn’t do it justice. From our balcony, we could see the bay, and the steamboats, and also everyone coming and going from the lobby. Which was kind of handy when we needed to find people.

We were right next door to Wade Kelly and Kayla Cooley, whose room number, 666, made me want to scritchy scratch the walls in an ominous way at night (although I suppressed the urge.)

The weather was glorious. The staff was nice. During the Luau, I dug my toes into the sand and let the HAPPY wash over me and it never left my heart the whole time!

I need to thank all the folks who helped me wish Sarah Lyons well. (Although I lost those signs somewhere…I am such a ditz…) We’re all on #teamsarahlyons !! Be fierce my friend!

Thanks also to all the new friends I made and all the folks I know from years past. It’s the people I enjoy at these events.

I want to thank all the authors who let me lose my shit over them. I will never get over fangirling the authors I don’t get to see often: Rhys Ford, Jordan L. Hawk, Charlie Cochet, and Jordan Castillo Price, to name just a very few. So many great authors!

And I LOVE, love love meeting readers!

I gave away a ton of swag and a boatload of books and some posters.

I danced the night away. Twice.

And then, after the conference was over, I got my tattoo cherry popped. My husband’s name is Marlin, in case you’re wondering what that’s all about. It’s a sly homage to someone I’ve been with for 33 years this month.

And then I slept for two solid days when I got home. I think I’m going t sleep until this weekend! Bless you all, and I can’t wait, I’m ready for next year already.

*shakes head* (No I’m not. Not yet. But as soon as I get a second wind…)