Packing List for the Writer’s Digest Conference, this coming Friday-Sunday in New York City.

In no particular order:

1. A sense of humor to overcome any traveling or hotel-related mishaps

2. Books on my Kindle, podcasts and a new Great Courses on my iPhone for the train ride

3. Cash for tipping and drinks

4. Running shoes to explore the city on foot Saturday morning

5. A cute cocktail outfit for schmoozing on Saturday night

6. Business cards to hand out to all the awesome new writers I’m going to meet

7. A clutch of nerves, which I will suppress with overriding excitement

8. An open mind and a dash of courage to approach new people

9. The elevator pitch for my current novel, rehearsed until I know it like a sound bite

10. A smile, a warm handshake and the reminder that agents are people too, agents are people too

11. The knowledge that for this weekend, at least, I’ll be among my chosen tribe.

(I’m SO super excited!!)

Conference recap next week!