Friday's updates

Alison Kent
While Alison is on vacation and enjoying National next week, she will be picking names of her blog visitors to receive copies of her books and some Alison surprise as well.

The Writing Playground
Alexandra talks about the Dreaded Question at National.

Grosvenor Square
Melissa talks about marketing preparations for National.

Elisabeth Naughton
Elisabeth went to a talk by Shirley Karr, and it's totally changed her attitude toward National next week.

Escape Into Our Fantasy
Last minute preps and a resolution to not check in with the office on Monday. Do we believe Cai? :)

Being Bonnie Vanak
Bonnie hopes to rediscover her muse at National.

The Passionate Pen
Jenna awaits a mystery package for National.

Wet Noodle Posse
This is Mary's third year as a GH finalist, and she has posted her acceptance speech.

Abriendo Puertas
Fill in the blank or, better yet, pop over to Barb's blog to see how she filled it in:

For National, everything has to be coordinated, just so, the right shoes, the right accessories, the right ____________.

Sandy's Chatterblog
Sandy writes:

I've forgotten to buy something totally essential to survival.

Can you guess what it is?

Sandy's Chatterblog
Shoe crisis averted.

Serendipity Links

• 25 Cinematic Cliches I Never Want to See Again -- got any to add?
• Interview with Paul Buckley Vice President Executive Art Director for Penguin. Start with Part 1 here, link to Part 2 here and at end of Part 1 as well.