With a tear in the eye & a heavy heart.

Here it is. The final day of the National writing conference and I find myself with a heavy heart and a tear in my eye.

What an amazing four days. I learned a lot through fantastic seminars about the craft of writing as well as the business side and the research it takes to get some stories done.

There were workshops on queries and pitching, finding agents and editors, how to make those sex scenes pop and sizzle, panel discussions, how to craft the breakout novel, and what to do if you have a great idea but aren't sure where to start.

Some people are published. A lot of people are not. But overall published or unpublished didn't matter, everyone was there because of an intense love of writing . It was the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pens. Or, sometimes the traveling computer.

I made new friends and met with some old ones, which was the cherry on the monster of all sundaes. The entire weekend infused every cell in my body with electricity and setting my creative soul on fire.

I had my pitch meetings and was asked to send more material. Keep in mind though that most people were asked for something so I am not putting all my eggs in one basket per say. It's not worth getting all giddy over until there is a signed contract. It was a nice boost to the ego in any case.

The last night was the awards ceremony which was the Oscars of the romance world. It was incredible. You can't help but feel proud of what these women have accomplished and strive to be there one day. And I will. In due time.

I can't wait to get home and use some of the invaluable information I've learned over the last few days and make my writing even better.