I accidentally sat next to Bruce Whatley

How does someone 'accidently' sit next to Bruce Whatley? Well, simple, I was too busy chatting with last years Writer in Action and Bendigo Writers Festival offical photographer Helen Konstan. I should probably also say that I was one chair removed from being next to Mr Whatley, but close enough.

It wasn't until Gena McLean, also a WiAer from last year and the person who actually did accidently sit next to Bruce, pointed out to me who he was that I realised. Whoops.

Last night was the Welcome dinner for the Text Marks the Spot guests, and what an amazing night. Being on Bruce's table for a good chunk of the night was so much fun. He is a very funny fellow, and generously shared stories, but importantly seemed genuinly interested in us ordinary folk on the table. Special. We spoke illustration, life and even spirituality and sceptic! (But that folks is a post for another day).

I also got to sit at a table with childrens author Adam Wallace, who is a very funny man. I hadn't come across his books before, but I get the feeling after meeting him that it is a must do - plus my 10 year old will love him too. On this table we discussed winking at Irish waiters to get preferred treatment, talking like a pirate, pop up playgrounds and puppetry.

Not your average dinner out. It is a real privelege to be invited to events such as this and despite my natural shyness I had an amazing time again. I even pushed myself this year to have a chat with the authors, which was my big regret last year. Tick that one off the bucket list!