Crimebake, 2014

     On the last day of this, my sixth Crime Bake, I can't help but think about my first. It was in 2009 and I didn't know a soul. I felt shy and intimidated by the throngs of people who had come to learn more about the craft of writing, and to pitch their novels to agents and editors, hoping to land that coveted contract with a big-time, NYC publisher.

     I sat at a small table table practicing my fifty-word pitch when a woman came over and asked me if that was, in fact, what I was doing. I told her it was and she said, "Okay, pitch to me." I practiced with her for a while, she wished me luck and went on her way. My shyness kicked in and I retired to my room, ordered room service and went through my swag bag. I did mingle a little more over the next two days, met a few people and came away a little smarter.

     Now, as I look around the table, it is filled with the wonderful people I've met over the years; some from past Crime Bakes, others from past Seascape writing retreats. All generous, helpful people with a common goal - to write and be read. Life if good.