Meet Cute - it sure was!

I was thrilled to have spent yesterday at the ‘Meet Cute Festival’ held at Home Farm in Elstree, near Borehamwood. My day started extra early as I needed to deliver my dog to his ‘home from home’ boarding for the night. But once he was settled, I packed my car ready for a day trip along the M1.
 
The sun was shining, Pink! was singing at her best and I had my usual Maccy’s breakfast for a fabulous day. I arrived just as the festival opened at 1pm and was greeted by the smiling faces of a posse of author-friends, who I haven’t seen in many years. I think it ranged from 5 – 7 years for some folks. Regular followers will know that the past few years have dealt me some unfortunate life cards regarding health issues and relationships – but now, I’m back! I can’t explain how delighted I was to see my tribe again. Though I think the smiles in the photos below says more than I ever could! 
 
There were many book lovers and published authors mingling throughout the day – which was wonderful. The event was very casual and informal which matched the ‘glamping’ setting perfectly. 
 
The timetable of events were organised to occur at various locations simultaneously. I attended a group participation session hosted by Sarah Bennett, where authors Donna Ashcroft, Jules Wake and Leonie Mack planned a novel – which was hilarious and gave the readers in the audience an insight into the world of a creative. Cressida McLaughlin, Heidi Swain and Jessica Redland were interviewed by the adorable Kathleen Whyman, about their writing careers and experiences in the published world. The bookworm, Kim Nash interviewed author Kirsty Greenwood about her publishing success and writing process – very insightful. After which, I attended a ‘Mastermind-like’ session hosted by Alison May in which three authors, Philippa Ashley, Kerry Barrett and Jennifer Page bravely took the hot seat to answer questions on the topics of Jane Austen, Jilly Cooper and Board games. The three authors were incredible by scoring between 12 - 14 points each out of 15!  
 
I came away exhausted by the high energy and yet uplifted by the vibe! I took a slow drive towards home, back up the M1, and stopped for tea … another Maccy’s at the same location as breakfast. And arrived home, tired but happy. Thank you to everyone that I spoke to – you each played a part in my weekend of happiness!
 
Though my true happiness was collecting my beloved dog the next morning, after his mini-staycation with a fabulous couple called Simon and Phillipa! A girl’s not a girl until she’s got her dog by her side!