tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post233861519989251860..comments2024-03-11T16:14:49.158-07:00Comments on Don't pet me, I'm writing: Sex and the (big scary) cityTAWNA FENSKEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11468819219529035563noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-51364036111313453072011-06-28T07:18:14.216-07:002011-06-28T07:18:14.216-07:00John's Pizza. It's near your hotel and the...John's Pizza. It's near your hotel and the best pizza ever. Eat in. Beautiful stained glass windows in the back.<br /><br />Drink the water--NYC's best kept secret.<br /><br />Relax (yeah, right) and have fun.Kay Elamhttp://www.kayelam.com/blognoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-86603970253996788462011-06-26T17:13:50.756-07:002011-06-26T17:13:50.756-07:00New Jersey Transit trains stop at the Newark airpo...New Jersey Transit trains stop at the Newark airport. It's 10 minutes to Penn Station from there. From Penn, a 7 block walk UP Broadway lands you at your hotel. Wave to me (35th Street) as you go by.<br /><br />To LGA, a cab is safest. $35 most likely.<br /><br />Transpo in NYC is easy. We ALL have to get around and it's designed to move you quickly and efficiently. Honest!Janet Reidhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00615380335938685231noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-24735271828002741662011-06-25T08:16:23.937-07:002011-06-25T08:16:23.937-07:00I think they should institute workshop breaks so t...I think they should institute workshop breaks so that we can all hide under the table and hum Home Sweet Home. <br /><br />I went to Nationals for the first time last year and it definitely is exhausting. I'm a serious introvert too, so all that socializing is draining. But it's so much fun that you just go into this manic state/survival mode that you maintain for those four days and then you go home and collapse into a mumbling heap.<br /><br />Though, last year I didn't really know anyone and this year I have so many people to meet, including (like you) my agent and editor, so I have a feeling this year will be a very different experience. <br /><br />Just take comfort in knowing that at least 75% of the writers there are socially awkward introverts as well and are feeling the exact same way as we are. :)Roni Lorenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02719679344024635326noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-74340279653266612132011-06-25T00:40:40.808-07:002011-06-25T00:40:40.808-07:00I'm a blaring "where's the next party...I'm a blaring "where's the next party?" extrovert, but I think all writers have a bit of introversion going on. <br /><br />I think maybe make a plan. See what stuff you have to attend and what you don't. Try to find a few 20 mins/half hours where you can go hide out. Lobby bathrooms in fancy hotels are actually pretty nice. Take a book, grab a stall. :)Claire Dawnhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14354840714847021685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-70811337083714249232011-06-24T16:45:34.388-07:002011-06-24T16:45:34.388-07:00I completely feel your introverted pain. Just kee...I completely feel your introverted pain. Just keep telling yourself "this, too, shall pass", and that you'll have some Tawna-time before you know it.<br /><br />Enjoy! You've earned it.DrCarrieThttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11360013081404711133noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-31710171793429437602011-06-24T07:47:58.970-07:002011-06-24T07:47:58.970-07:00Best wishes for your trip! I love your description...Best wishes for your trip! I love your description of yourself, the introvert.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-54767142071256046342011-06-24T07:15:45.094-07:002011-06-24T07:15:45.094-07:00I've been to NYC twice since Jan, both for con...I've been to NYC twice since Jan, both for conferences. It IS over-stimulating (I'm a lot like you when it comes to crowds of people), but for a week or so, it's WONDERFUL and fun. You just have to prepare yourself to be surrounded by people pretty much all the time, wear comfortable shoes (ALWAYS. Don't give into cute shoe temptation because you will regret it), and immerse yourself. <br /><br />I adore visiting NYC but have decided I don't think I could live there. At least not permanently. I like my space.<br /><br />You'll have a great time, Tawna. Can't wait to hear about it!Trisha Leighhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00356610648183348015noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-4556264268325732532011-06-23T20:42:36.180-07:002011-06-23T20:42:36.180-07:00You'll be fine! It's a great city and you...You'll be fine! It's a great city and you'll be among friends. See you there.<br /><br />:)Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02849370947985905108noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-72819235394783369042011-06-23T19:45:10.572-07:002011-06-23T19:45:10.572-07:00A good book and a hot cup of tea can work wonders ...A good book and a hot cup of tea can work wonders on ones nerves. <br /><br />Plus if it's herbal tea it won't keep you up and you can crash while you're still all mellowed out :)Hannah Hounshellhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07532704190227652913noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-71721711751190125092011-06-23T14:42:40.582-07:002011-06-23T14:42:40.582-07:00As a recent NYC writing conference first-timer, do...As a recent NYC writing conference first-timer, don't stress. There will be people there who've been there a million times, and they'll tell you all you need to know. And more.<br /><br />You'll find a million taxis at the airport/hotel willing to take you wherever you want to go. Just beware jumping into the unmarked ones. Did this once and it was fine, but a little worrisome mid-trip.<br /><br />As long as you don't pull a Britney Spears when getting out of the limo, whatever you wear will be fine! The Little Black Dress and heels are classic for a reason, plus you can wear it another day if you throw a blazer or cardigan over it.<br /><br />Conference rooms will be freezing -- bring a sweater/coverup.<br /><br />Bring your headphones and plan to veg out at one of the Starbucks you'll find on every corner for down time. I like to go back to my hotel room and de-workshop for an hour at the end of the day, but rooming w/ several people may limit your alone time.<br /><br />Oh yeah -- HAVE FUN!Lizhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03253001356265463383noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-66640064546092623432011-06-23T11:58:01.746-07:002011-06-23T11:58:01.746-07:00If you find yourself needing a restroom in Time Sq...If you find yourself needing a restroom in Time Square, the cleanest public toilets are in Toys 'R Us.~ Mhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08541327644234296634noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-44680805254087153262011-06-23T10:41:19.797-07:002011-06-23T10:41:19.797-07:00I want to meet you! I feel like I know you!
We li...I want to meet you! I feel like I know you!<br /><br />We live in CT so we ride the train in. We either walk or take the subway every where we go. Enjoy the scenery above or below. Tip: do not ride the subway alone late at night.<br /><br />You have to go to the M&M store. Make a bag of your favorite colored candies.<br /><br />Go to the Yankees or Mets game while in town. Cute boys ALWAYS go to sporting events. Pretend that you know the College World Series is taking place in Omaha.<br /><br />Gay Pride is this weekend so you may experience left overs from the event.<br /><br />Let me know where you will be, or just look for us! I'll be there with my dad, his new wife, my 8-year-old niece, my 6-year-old nephew, my 33-year-old brother with autism, and my 7- and 10-year-old step children. fun times!!Missyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14851454044280554701noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-58605563716328975052011-06-23T10:28:53.578-07:002011-06-23T10:28:53.578-07:00You might try scheduling some quiet time in the ho...You might try scheduling some quiet time in the hotel room. At conferences, I often need periods of time in silence and darkness -- so I can recharge and feel ready to interact with crowds again. I've had pretty good success working this out with roomies. <br /><br />It doesn't bother me if other people are in the room during my quiet time. I just need the silence to reset. If I don't know my roomies particularly well, I just tell them I know I'll be deseperate for a nap during the day. Then, we compare schedules to figure out a good time that works for everyone.Julianoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-4756406187998508502011-06-23T09:50:10.129-07:002011-06-23T09:50:10.129-07:00I'm terrorized of the city too. Which is odd b...I'm terrorized of the city too. Which is odd because my Uncle lives there and my dad and I go there at least once a year. None the less I have a panic attack every time we get on the train to go there. <br /><br />My advice is simple, just breathe. It sounds wacky but whenever I was feeling like I was suffocating I just had to remember to breathe. Also to make it all seem less daunting know where you're headed, look at a map and have it in your sights so you don't have to worry about getting lost and such. <br /><br />As for people just keep a level head try to make friends, or meet up with people you already know, (there is power in numbers) and remember their probably just as nervous as you are!Hayley Lovellhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16786674202167099600noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-31832977386308206702011-06-23T09:41:05.772-07:002011-06-23T09:41:05.772-07:00Wow, guys! Thanks so much for all the amazing tips...Wow, guys! Thanks so much for all the amazing tips! I'm going to be printing this out and memorizing it!<br /><br />TawnaTAWNA FENSKEhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11468819219529035563noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-41158183756549300342011-06-23T09:34:40.302-07:002011-06-23T09:34:40.302-07:00Most of what I know about the big apple comes from...Most of what I know about the big apple comes from a college roommate who lived in full-blown Manhattan decadence for several years after school. From what I gather (and since you are asking) here are some impressions.<br /><br />1) Don't take it personally if someone seems rude as that's just their charming way. Its an intense city filled with intense people. Counter with a sharp quip of your own... a good-natured counter-jab will garner respect. <br /><br />2) Be your weird self--a topless puppet show probably wouldn't be the strangest thing most of them have seen since breakfast. And anyway you're a writer so its expected. You already fit the template so just go with it. <br /><br />3) Whatever you anticipate spending...double it and smile. <br /><br />4) Stay loose and enjoy the moment; this is what you've been working for and you deserve to be there. <br /><br />Good luck and have fun, you're a big bright shooting star baby! :)Mark Simpsonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-41727526479893840762011-06-23T09:01:33.943-07:002011-06-23T09:01:33.943-07:00One of those oh-so-many crazy things people have c...One of those oh-so-many crazy things people have created around the web is tripgeo.com --you can type in the address of your starting point and your destination, then along with the map, it gives you a virtual visual re-creation of your trip which you can manipulate in 360 degrees. Even if you've seen it on the map already, having known what it looks like all around you en route takes away a lot of the anxiety. And New Yorkers are MUCH friendlier than their reputation would have you believe when giving directions.<br /><br />However, it won't help when it comes to the dancing on tables, I'm afraid.circuitmousehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15331630643043133780noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-54825365716114045942011-06-23T09:01:24.886-07:002011-06-23T09:01:24.886-07:00I'm a major introvert myself. (100% on Myers B...I'm a major introvert myself. (100% on Myers Briggs). What really helps me? Stuff from home. Soap, shampoo, and yes, towels. Yes, I really bring my own towels from home when traveling to a hotel that is fully stocked with towels.<br /><br />See if you can work out some "alone time" periods with your roomies? Of find a little used room at the hotel that you can use for alone time?<br /><br />And drink plenty of water. It will help your body deal with the stress of All. Those. People.Touch of Inkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13551995840395409781noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-19376483776497504922011-06-23T08:46:22.129-07:002011-06-23T08:46:22.129-07:00The check-in lines at the Marriott Marquis take fo...The check-in lines at the Marriott Marquis take forever so plan extra time just for that. But once you're in, the rooms are comfy. Eating in the hotel is $$$, but there are lots of cafes nearby. And if you find yourself with too many books to carry home, the hotel has a terrific business center or there's a Fed-Ex office over near Radio City Music Hall. Have fun! You've earned it!JJhttp://www.msrewrite.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-5358722014970483742011-06-23T08:27:45.558-07:002011-06-23T08:27:45.558-07:00And remember: there will be Betties! Go connect up...And remember: there will be Betties! Go connect up via the forums or just a comment and you will find out with Betties will be there. Get together with them for some comfort and sharing. (No, I won't be there. Funds and all that.)<br /><br />Just remember to give yourself alone time every day, even if it's only 30 minutes. And do yoga breathing. This is from an introvert's introvert, too.<br /><br />You'll be fine. Have lots of fun!Skyehttp://thingsintheskye.blogspot.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-13641988497075733802011-06-23T08:17:42.158-07:002011-06-23T08:17:42.158-07:00I'm with you on the NYC fright factor. I don&#...I'm with you on the NYC fright factor. I don't do well around a lot of people and am trying to avoid having a panic attack. I mean...my town has maybe 120k people in it. NYC is a completely different universe as far as I'm concerned.<br /><br />The conference though...that's going to be awesome. I had so much fun last year. I was worried I'd be a wallflower (because of the not liking people thing), but the other writers are just like you are. There are so many icebreakers you can use! Like one lady I met in line arranging transportation back to the airport last year turned around and said "Nora Roberts spilled her soft drink on me!" My response? "That's so awesome!" LOL<br /><br />I hope to see you lurking around somewhere :)Danica Avethttp://danicaavet.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-27906116379712269222011-06-23T08:04:16.847-07:002011-06-23T08:04:16.847-07:00Wish I was going :( But trust me...any girl who ca...Wish I was going :( But trust me...any girl who can handle a mapanare and being held at gunpoint, not to mention surviving an intestinal parasite, can handle little old New York. Now whether or not New York can handle you is the real question.... :)Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05686424597825645224noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-84568688058757619242011-06-23T07:20:28.269-07:002011-06-23T07:20:28.269-07:00Miranda already gave you great advice on behalf of...Miranda already gave you great advice on behalf of New Yorkers, so let me just add...<br /><br />- Don't be frightened by the subway system. It is far easier to navigate than it appears.<br /><br />- DO see a Broadway play if you have the opportunity. You can find day of tickets at the TKTS booth in Times Square. More info here... http://www.tdf.org/TDF_ServicePage.aspx?id=56<br /><br />- When sightseeing, do NOT stand in the middle of the sidewalk gaping upward. Chances are you'll get knocked over by angry New Yorkers. Gape, take pictures, but please do it standing to the side. :-)<br /><br />I couldn't attend RWA this year because of finances, so have a wonderful time for both of us. And take LOTS of pictures.Tina Mosshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09892617933410379929noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-10247053230842010832011-06-23T07:14:32.349-07:002011-06-23T07:14:32.349-07:00I got up early every morning and blogged last year...I got up early every morning and blogged last year's conference for you. I expect you to return the favor. That way you'll be delirious and incoherent by day 3 like I was.Patrick Alanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01121337008453549441noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-422555164465305734.post-24288406673694360232011-06-23T06:59:03.243-07:002011-06-23T06:59:03.243-07:00Okay. There's too much awesome advice here alr...Okay. There's too much awesome advice here already, and even though I'm totally shy AND introverted myself, there's not much I can add.<br /><br />So I'll just say hi.<br /><br />Hi Tawna, have a great time in NYC!Matthew MacNishhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03264738483763244969noreply@blogger.com