9-16-09 The limo
Friends:
I arrived in Oklahoma City today for the Encyclo-Media conference. I had to be at the airport this morning at 5am. When I checked in at the ticket counter (I had trouble with online check-in), the AA representative said, “The first officer for your flight just found out that his wife is in labor. We are going to re-route you through DFW on an earlier flight.” Great. That meant I arrived in Oklahoma City one hour sooner.
When I arrived at the gate, it was time to board – no waiting. On the flight, I was able to surf the web with AA’s new “GoGo” in-flight Internet service. (Be forewarned. It’s NOT free. Also, FYI – AA now charges $20 for the first checked bag and $30 for the second).
I connected in Dallas and didn’t wait long to board my next flight to OK. When I finally got to my room, I was exhausted from zero Zzzzzs the night before. So I had a glorious nap.
I woke up, worked, ordered room service, and then later, got ready for a dinner with the Encyclo-Media Conference Coordinators. I was having dinner with Elaine Regier, Perri Applegate and Vickie Hale (Oklahoma Department of Education), Doug Johnson (author & speaker), Mary Johnson (education consultant and speaker), and Randy Testa (Walden Media). Here we all are!
9-16-09 The gang going to dinner
We were heading to Zio’s, an Italian restaurant in Bricktown. And we rode there in style – in a white stretch limousine! Reminds me of an 80s Sheila E Song – “She wants to lead the glamorous life…” LOL). See? “Okies” give you the royal treatment!! 
9-16-09 The LIMO
Here I am with Doug Johnon inside the limo.
9-16-09 Dianne & Doug Johnson in the limo (cuz that's how we roll... yeah boy!)
Dinner was delicious but dessert — now that was divine. We sampled several desserts but my favorite was the Italian Cream Cake. YUM! Here is a picture of my inspired table art…
9-16-09 Dianne's Table Art (okay, maybe not gallery ready...)
At dinner, Elaine Regier was the first person to receive a signed copy of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach, my gift to her. Here is the happy gang at dinner.
9-17-09 Dinner at Zio's
After dinner, I visited with my Libraries Unlimited editor, Sharon Coatney and the author services manager, Debby LaBoon. It was an enjoyable day. Tomorrow I have three presentations – Story Fest, Tangram Tales and Tell Along Tales. It will be so much fun!
Until next time…
Warmly, Dianne
