What I love about Milwaukee: the art museum on the lake, especially the Folk Art there. The lake itself, a force to be reckoned with. Paul CeBar & the Milwaukeens. The brats, beer, borscht, and Alterra Coffee, especially when enjoyed at Alterra Café at the Lake.
But now I love Milwaukee for a whole new reason.
This past Saturday, I drove north to attend the Barbara Vey Reader Appreciation Luncheon. Barbara lives in the Milwaukee area, and she blogs at Beyond Her Book, Publisher’s Weekly.
I think Barbara may also be a saint. I say this because she had, and continues to have a vision (thanks to her mom, who was an avid reader). Barbara’s vision: to organize an event solely for the purpose of celebrating readers. She’d bring readers and writers (who of course are also readers) together in her hometown. There’d be great conversation, food (amazing cupcakes!), laughter, and celebratory gifts. All in honor of the people who in this fast-paced day and age, still love to crack open a book. Here’s Barbara. Can you see her halo?
And here I am, sitting with new friends. The woman sitting to my left is also named Karen. Over lunch, Karen told me the synopsis of her book, and I am seizing this moment to say:
I want to read your book, Karen! Find that agent! Today!
All around, it was an amazingly fun day. I am grateful for the readers and writers I met, and for Barbara Vey. And for Milwaukee, of course.
Click here to read Barbara’s own take on the day, and see more pics too!
