This past weekend, I attended Writer’s Day 2010.  Writer’s Day is a one day conference, presented by The New Hampshire Writers’ Project, that brings together more than 200 members of New Hampshire’s writing community for a day of learning and networking.

The day is a mix of general and break out sessions.  This year’s keynote speaker was Nicholson Baker,  (above far left) an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction who currently resides in Maine. There were breakout sessions that focused on creativity, selling your work, point of view, word choice, and children’s books, just to name a few. There were plenty of opportunities for networking as well as time for authors to pitch work to agents and editors.

The day ended with Literary Idol, where contestants had three minutes to present a story for a live audience (above far right Susan Nye presents).   All were offered immediate feedback from a panel of esteemed judges that included James Patrick Kelly, Joni B. Cole and Jim Collins.  The session was moderated by the fabulous New Hampshire story teller Becky Rule (above second from left and below right). Those who went over the three minute time frame were sprayed with water by the armed and dangerous Carla Gericke (above second from right).

Props to NHWP Executive Director Kathy Boss and Program Director Carla Gericke and everyone who worked so hard to make Writers’ day a success.  As a recovering event planner, I understand how much effort goes into executing a such a successful event. I also want to thank the sponsors who stepped up to support New Hampshires writers.  Without organizations like Delta Dental, Lincoln Financial, New England College, Riverstone Resources, Southern New Hampshire University and Whitebridge Farm Productions delivering such a high caliber event just wouldn’t be possible.

Personally, I learned some, I networked some and I laughed a lot.  I also had an opportunity in one workshop to briefly address the issue of albinism and the evil character that in itself was almost worth the price of admission.  The day was also an opportunity for me to reaffirm my commitment to writing.  My time at the keyboard is incredibly scares these days and promises continue that way until at least the fall, yet, I am clear, that I want to write. I have words in me that need to get out and I am so very comfortable with those who are similarly afflicted.

The New Hampshire Writers’ project offers many opportunities for writers to gather an learn through out the year. For more details or to become a member visit it their web site http://www.nhwritersproject.org/