SCBWI-EPA Pocono Mountain Retreat

Here's the Shawnee Inn, scene of the recent SCBWI-EPA Pocono Mountain Retreat . . .




What an interesting place. Right on the bank of the Delaware River . . .




I sat on one of these rocking chairs to enjoy the view . . .




And this little guy, "Sonny," kept me company in my room . . .




Every evening I returned to my room to find a poem and a freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookie waiting for me. And in the morning, I was awakened by a man playing bagpipes -- Yes, bagpipes! -- outside my window.

But the Inn wasn't the best part.

The people were!

Here are some of the fine, funny folks who endured, um, were enlightened by my humor writing workshop . . .




Here they are again, getting their funny on . . .




I enjoyed listening to amazing keynote speeches, but when it came time to give my keynote, "Six Reasons to Quit Writing (And One Important Reason Not To)," I was so nervous I slept only three measly hours the night before.

Here is a shot of some of the folks who suffered through, um, sat through my keynote . . .



I survived. In fact, the speech went really well. As did the entire conference from start to finish.

So many wonderful people. A silent auction and raffle to benefit the SCBWI chapter in Japan. Inspiring speakers and attendees.

I definitely felt like I gained more than I gave.

Thank you to Marilyn Hershey for inviting me and for all the dedicated volunteers, speakers and attendees who created such a magical experience!