Tonight marked the start of the 91st annual Missouri Writers Guild writers conference. Though I've been a member of the guild for a few years now, the conference makes the rounds to different parts of the state each year, and with 2006 bringing it to Kansas City it allowed me my first opportunity to attend without having to take vacation days from work.

The evening's activities were interesting, and showcased one of the Guild's strengths, that being the sheer diversity of the membership. Pretty much any genre you can think of was represented, matched in their variety by the group of writers, editors and agents who traveled here to serve as part of the conference faculty. The first of the breakout panel discussions started tonight, as well as the initial "one-on-one" quick meetings between conference attendees and members of the faculty. Much in demand, of course, were the editors and agents (representing agencies from both coasts as well as regional interests), whereas it looks as though the writers will be quite busy on Saturday and Sunday with panels, meetings, etc.

Kevin and I were invited to talk about writing for licensed properties, so that'll be the focus of our panel discussions on Saturday. There are also some sessions we want to attend ourselves, as well as participating in the book signing a few other activities.

So, it's late to bed and early to rise, followed by a full day to come.

Thank God for Mountain Dew. I wonder if I can arrange to have it administered via IV?