From the Awe of Irie:

Wow. Wow. Wow. I just. I just can't even believe. Like. Anything at the moment. I was so scared - I had such high expectations for the SW. I was sure none would come true. I was sure I'd be the girl standing awkwardly in the corner, watching everyone, like I am most everywhere else. But I wasn't. Because, you see, at normal places, the conversations goes:
"Hi! I'm Irie!"
"I'm *insert name.* What do you like to do?"
"Ummm.... write stories... And watch Doctor Who... and read classic literature..."
"Oh."
*awkward silence*

At the SW? I talked with so many awesome people. And I could talk to all of them, for, like, hours, about all my favorite things. And it was awesome beyond awesome. And. I still can't really process that I was even there.

THE SESSIONS. They was so wonderful. I just can't believe it. I am so encouraged, and ready to tackle editing my novel - something I've never done before. And the best part is, I only got like... two random plot bunnies. The rest of the inspiration applied directly to my current novel.

MY CRITIQUE GROUP WAS SO AWESOME. It's the first time I've ever had anything really critiqued. And now I am so excited to start fixing my novel.

I won't miss Kansas. Sorry. Way too hot and humid. I almost died while trying to find my dorm room on the first day. I actually did a little dance when I stepped out into the wonderful 65 degree weather back home this evening :D

I almost cried last night. Because, so many people, so many friendly, nice people all together doing writer things and I was going home the next day and I wouldn't see them again for so long... but then I realized it's not the end. I'm not sad anymore. It's not "over." I've been more encouraged than ever before. Now that I've seen you, OYAN is so much more "real" to me. I see all of us - young writers - and I know I'm not alone.

So. This was longer than I planned. Oh well. To sum it up in one sentence: This past week was the best of my life. Thank you OYAN.

And now I'm off to sleep. And edit. And tell my friends about all the epicness and hope they join OYAN too :D

~Irie Odessa