VCon38 was my first “Con”, and what an experience it was. Nina Munteanu, intrepid editor and science fiction writer, suggested I attend. She thought it was time for me to step out of my comfort zone. She was right and so I boomed out and volunteered to moderate two panels and guest on a third.
I had only a brief Internet-driven idea of what to expect. Thank heavens for my BOGO. (She’s the sister-in-law who came for free when I married her brother.) She kept me sane when my nerves were running amok as I prepped for my first panel. In hindsight, I shouldn’t have been nervous; in fact, all the panel participants – from newbies to award-winning authors – were kind and generous and the panels came off without a hitch.
Artist Alley
The Art Show displayed an outstanding collection of paintings, sculpture and other objets d’art. Artist Alley and the Dealer Room were a cornucopia of sights and sounds. One of my favourite stops was the display of costumes made by the students of Capilano University’s Costuming for Stage and Screen program.
Pirates
I do wish I’d taken more photos though; these photos are of the trip, not the destination. The theme of this year’s VCon was Pirates, and the halls of the Delta Vancouver Airport were awash with colourful costumes and enthusiastic VCon participants. That we were new to the “Con” experience was evident when one of the dealers asked, “Are you two sure you’re in the right place?” Next time, I’ll ditch the suit and be better prepared in the costume department.
For now, though, I’m going to dress-up like a chef, pretend I can cook, and prepare a Thanksgiving feast. Have a wonderful turkey weekend and count your blessings.
And fly, it does . . . it was less than a year ago that the good folks at 
And for everyone out there who’s been asking when the third book in the trilogy, 
McKellar is in Ontario’s cottage country. It’s one of those towns people in Toronto refer to as “up north,” which covers a lot of ground. For me, McKellar, Broadbent and Parry Sound are places where I spent considerable time in my youth. Grandparents, aunts and uncles had homes and cottages in the area. My parents have lived there for many years, and one of my sisters has moved into my grandmother’s house and turned it into her cottage.
The library does an outstanding job promoting local authors, even ones like me who have moved away. They encourage library usage through innovative measures – did I mention the fishing poles? Not only do they loan out books and current issues of popular magazines, they also have a large collection of DVDs, videos, large print books and talking books. They offer free Internet and wireless service and if the mood strikes you, you can borrow a pedometer.
In the midst of engaging conversations and summer holiday reminiscing, Revelation was launched. The book took flight, flitting from hand to hand, blushing at the oohs and awes directed at its beautiful cover. Just wait until you read what’s inside, I thought, as copies got tucked under arms and stowed in purses.
Revelation Book Launch Limoncello Fizz:
Into the bottom of a frosty champagne flute
Pour half an ounce of thick-from-the-freezer Limoncello
Top with thoroughly chilled Cupcake Prosecco.
Enjoy.
Start the series with Secret Sky. It’s just a click away. Get your copy from Kindle with 
