Packing for Portland!!

High of 90; low of 54. That’s the temperature range for Portland, Oregon, next week when ~300 scribes and bookworms will come together to celebrate books for, by and about lesbians. It’s the Golden Crown Literary Society’s 10th annual conference (July 9-13), and I can say with pride that I’ve been to every single one. These are the lessons I’ve learned from previous GCLS cons:

1. Fun will be had by all.
2. Time will fly.
3. Hugs will be freely given.
4. The “low of 54” will be inside the conference rooms.

Here’s a photo taken a couple of years ago shortly after an episode of mayhem involving L to R: Bella authors Erica Abbott, Pol Robinson, Dillon Watson, myself and Karin Kallmaker. I’m explaining to Erica how none of said mayhem was my fault. There are lots of photos like this one from past conferences, and no doubt many more will be posted after this year’s event. It isn’t always “not my fault” but it sometimes is. This time it was. I swear. And Karin cries a lot for no reason.

I’ll be busy in Portland. First up is a panel called, “I Wish I’d Written That.” I’m moderating, and I’ll have Katherine V. Forrest, Karin Kallmaker, Lori Lake & Georgia Beers on hand to tell us whose writing they covet and why. I’m also scheduled for an Author Chat, which is hosted by Melissa Brayden. Trust me when I say everyone will be looking at Melissa, so they won’t even know the authors are chatting. In another session, I’ll be reading from my newest book, Anyone But You. A sex scene, probably (not). And finally, I’m a panelist in a session called, “GCLS Writing Academy: Information Session.”

Karaoke Night has a 1960s theme, and since I remember the words to nearly every song that came out that decade, it’s possible Jenny & I will attempt another duet. Stay tuned to YouTube.

The big gala comes on Saturday night — the Goldie Awards! Etched in Shadows is shortlisted in Contemporary Traditional Romance and again in the Ann Bannon Popular Choice category. How cool is it that Ann Bannon will be there?!?!?!

I’ll post again when I get home, probably with more photos of me explaining why other episodes of mayhem were not my fault either.

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I mentioned back in May that I was interested in doing an event this summer while I’m here in NC, and I asked readers to let me know if they heard of any opportunities. JJ Crabb, who seems to answer the call every single time I ask for help, arranged an event for July 27th (1 pm) at the LGBT Center of Raleigh. I can’t wait to meet her.

Author D. Jackson Leigh is moderating. I’ll have lots of books on hand, but you can bring your own if you want them signed. I plan to donate a few to the Center. If you’re anywhere near the piedmont, I hope you’ll join us.