First, California. Next, My Winter Retreat.

I'm heading to Southern California today for CSLA's annual convention. I'll be presenting "Books Between Cultures" on Friday from 2:15-3:15, and then signing in the exhibit hall from 3:30 to 4:30. On Sunday, I'll be at the Author Brunch listening to Bruce Hale's speech and schmoozing with librarians. If you're there in real life, come find me, and I'll be sharing news from the conference virtually on twitter using hashtag #csla2009.

After that, I begin my winter retreat, backing away from the internet to create space for writing and the holiday season. I'll be lightly involved via social media and commenting on other blogs, but won't return to the Fire Escape until 1/8. It's cold out here anyway, right? Enjoy the quieter winter season, and I'll see you out here again in 2010. Peace be with you.