I submitted three different short stories this past week to two different contests. How will the stories fare amongst the competition? I honestly don’t know, but as my status reads, I’ve a sweet little sense of accomplishment and I like it! Makes me want to write and submit some more! 🙂

Also, I’ve attended a couple of enjoyable events recently. First, I drove to a Chicago Tribune sponsored Author Talk featuring Alexander McCall-Smith. I have not read any of his (five!) series, most popular of which I’d guess is the Number One Ladies’ Detective Agency. It was at Elmhurst College, he was 40 minutes late, and well worth the wait. An older gentleman, white haired with a Scottish accent, he was absolutely charming. He told wonderful stories, answered questions, and most importantly (in my mind) held his own against one of the least impressive interviewers I have ever seen. (Yes, Elizabeth Taylor, I’m referencing YOU.)

Next up, I went to the Taste of Home Cooking School event at the Egyptian Theater in DeKalb. It was a lot of fun! The demo-chef, Eric Villegas,  and the guest emcee, Gavin Wilson (owner and chef of the Hillside restaurant in DeKalb), had a wonderful rapport. The show was informational, entertaining and quite humorous. Made me want to start cooking again!

Friday I spent the day in Chicago– which I love doing– hanging out, people watching, and walking, walking, walking! I was in town to see Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help, also through the Chicago Tribune Author Talks series (and also with that twice-makes-it-real-not-just-a-fluke horrible interviewer Elizabeth Taylor). The ‘interview’ was painful but the guest was wonderful. Kathryn Stockett is a waif of a woman, slight and gorgeous, with the most delightful southern accent. She speaks in hushed monotones which makes her peppered commentary absolutely unexpected. She told some fabulous stories about growing up in the South, writing this book, the publication process and the movie (opens Aug. 12, 2011). Following the ‘interview,’ was a reception with a tasty variety of appetizers as well as beer and wine. I’m very glad I attended!

In addition to Alexander McCall-Smith and Kathryn Stockett, I have also attended author events featuring David Berner and Gary W. Moore. These two amazing authors, both memoirists in their own right, were available through ‘local’ outlets. Their discussions were every bit as valuable as the Chicago offerings without any of the distractions of a terrible host. (Ask me how I feel about that woman? I’ll tell you!)

Now:

Oh, man, I remember that interviewer, lol. Awful. Made the audience uncomfortable. I also remember the days when I was busy going to the city instead of too busy to get there! What a difference seven years makes.

Because you can’t (yet) add multiple links to Facebook posts, here are the connections you need to follow up with the authors and their work referenced in the note.
Alexander McCall
Number One Ladies’ Detective Agency (books)
Number One Ladies’ Detective Agency (TV series)
Kathryn Stockett
The Help (book)
The Help (movie)
David Berner
Gary W. Moore