I am really excited . . . and really bummed!

No, I'm not talking about the Giants not doing anything before the trade deadline (except trade away our former 2nd baseman, Ray Durham).

Although I have a number of thoughts about the Giants . . . but I'll save that for another time.

What I'm talking about is this upcoming weekend. We made the drive down from the Northwoods to Madison this afternoon, and apart from wanting to duct tape my children to the roof of the car by the time we arrived at the hotel, it was a good drive (and I finished my next book, which I'll try to review tomorrow).

I'm really happy to be back in Madison. I love this city and I'm looking forward to seeing some family tomorrow, in addition to the huge 90th birthday party we're celebrating for my Grandpa on Saturday!

However, I can't help but think if I wasn't here right now, I'd be in LA getting prepared for the SCBWI National Conference.

This will be the first time since 2004 I won't be attending . . . and I'm incredibly bummed about it.

Ever year I have attended the LA Conference, I've experience something new and different. From coming out of my shell a little more, to meeting new and fascinating people. Last year in particular was amazing and I was looking forward to building on that . . .

But, it wasn't meant to be . . . there will be another Conference next year. Plus it gives me an extra year of work and writing accomplished.

The whole reason why we're having this party is because my Grandpa is the first male on his side of the family to hit this milestone and he thinks that's pretty damn special.

And to tell you the truth . . . so do I!