Notes from a Writing Life

One travel mug, and at least three decent types of tea bags
One good sneaky move for approaching the coffee condiments table and making off with some milk
The business cards that make it look like I'm trying too hard
The alternate business cards that make it look like I'm trying too hard not to try too hard
One tote bag for the inevitable book purchases
One car, with mostly vacant trunk, for the inevitably overflowing tote bag
A small bag for the free chocolate
A big bag of almonds, to offset the free chocolate
The names and numbers of people in attendance whom I know, for social validation
Three phone numbers of friends not in attendence, for occasional reality checks
Velcro for soul, firmly attached on both ends
One list of must-see events, panels, and people
Three brilliantly scintillating pitches for the major projects, all coming in at under 30 seconds
Three slightly longer yet no less brilliant synopses for said major projects, accessible in less than the time it takes to steep tea
A list of editors who like good tea
Extra tea
Two printed copies of my first 50 pages. One is just asking for trouble via spilled tea; three is expecting too much.
One good natured spouse who likes books in the way a healthy person does, for balance and a birthday dinner
One overpriced hotel room with a bathtub, for emergencies
Confidence, confidence, confidence.
One stop at Powell's on the drive home, just in case the trunk isn't full enough.

See you there?