Tadaa!

Check it out, Reader: I'm BACK! My computer refused to turn on for a few weeks and I thought I was going to have to throw myself off a cliff because what is the point of living if I can't watch Charlie the Unicorn, Lobster Magnet, and Alex Wong's Hip Hop performance with Twitch from Season 7 of SYTYCD whenever I feel like it???

And, of course, I couldn't blog. Yes, I missed you. I hope you missed me too. I noticed a distinct LACK of handwritten notes asking after my health and spiritual well being, unlike when my cleavage post

was late and you were all sending me lavender-scented death threats or, sometimes, simply a letter pressed card that said "Boobs!"

Ah, it's good to be back.

And yes I do realize I owe you a shit ton of book reviews. I just finished A Clash of Kings by George R. R. Martin as well as Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor, so add those to the list as well.

I love talking about books but when it comes to a Review, I find it tiring. Why can't you all just come over to my house for coffee and Ginger Jack cookies? Why, Reader?

Tragically, this is the last time you will hear from me this week, because tomorrow—in the middle of the night, no less—I'll be leaving for Colorado to attend Sirens again this year! Here's a link to posts from last year on the subject. They are not particularly organized. I should be better with my labels.

Sirens (that link takes you to their site) is a conference for women in Fantasy lit. This year's guest authors are Laini Taylor, Nnedi Okorafor, and Justine Larbalestier. Last year I had the life-changing experience of meeting Terri Windling. I also got to share an elevator with Delia Sherman and have dinner with Malinda Lo and Cindy Pon and talk to Holly Black and meet Sara Rees Brennan and...HEAD EXPLOSION.

(Faye, Me, and Juliet at Sirens 2010)

And in addition to all THAT, I got to see the hammered gold trees of Vail, relax in a hot tub, dress like a twilight faerie, and make some very awesome friends. AND on top of that, get my head buzzing with incredibly thoughtful discussions on women characters in Fantasy literature.

(Pretty leaves from Sirens 2010)

I can't WAIT to see what happens this year, and to share it with all of you. I'll be back next week with plenty to say. Until then, be kind to yourselves.