The Ozark Creative Writer's Conference, October 7, 2010, in Eureka Springs, Arkansas was a hit. I had a blast, learned much, and met loads of new people!
This poem won Second Honorable Mention:
Springtime
The trees and flowers are entirely in bud
Each one a beautiful creation of God
The Birds and the bees are busy too
And the roses are all covered in dew.
Warm showers pitter-patter on the ground
Children playing on a merry-go-round
A radiant rainbow in colors of dye
Gallantly stretches out across the sky.
Steady streams run the babbling brooks
Uphill, downhill, around crannies and nooks
Dazzling like diamonds under bright sunbeams
Safe havens provide for colorful breams.
I was thrilled because it was a first time win for me!
I signed books and met lots of people at the festival. On Friday night November 1 an author's party was held. It was great to mingle and get to know many of the attending authors. The food was great and so was the entertainment.
The highlight of the evening for me was meeting Lou Gossett Jr. and taking a photo with him. I didn't realize he was there until one of the hostesses told me to make sure I look for him because he was there. It wasn't long when he came into the room. It was great chatting with such an icon. I only wish I had more time to talk with him, but everyone was requiring his attention and company.
Next year I'll be better prepared because I'll know what to expect.