My friend Miranda and I had a totally groovy time at the 2012 SCBWI summer conference held in Los Angeles, California.

Besides meeting some of the top authors, illustrators, agents, publishers and editors in children’s literature, we also participated in a flash mob, dressed up like hippies and used misprinted business cards to spread peanut butter on bread. (Hey, we know how to eat on the cheap.)

As I was going over my conference notes this morning, I felt inspired by the quotes I’d jotted down during keynote speeches at the event. Soon, my family will be entering a new season – the kids will be going back to school and I’ll have more writing time. It’s been an amazing summer, but I’m ready for the work ahead and these quotes will light my path:

“Let in the hope.” - Arthur Levine on writing timeless books

“In the end, there are things we must face alone.” – Tony DiTerlizzi in his talk about creativity

Speed is never a friend of the writer.

“Separate the writer from the editor, the editor from the critic, and then dump the critic.” - Karen Cushman, author

“The only thing that can stop you is stopping.” – Chris Rylander, author

“Incredible things will happen if you stick with it.” - Emma Dryden, editor & author

“Inspiration often strikes when I am far from my chair.” – Karen Cushman

“Consider some emotional truths that only you can write.” – Ruta Sepetys, author

“There’s a doorway that will change your life if you walk through it.” - Bryan Collier, illustrator & author

Special note: Check out fellow Wisconsin author Lisa Albert’s debut novel Mercy Lily, or read more about the book on her blog.

Photo by szeke