This is a wonderful idea! She's been very forthcoming lately about sharing details in interviews and Q&A sessions, now that she doesn't have to keep information secret for the next installation of the series. So this question could open the door for her to share lots of great insights! I've wondered about this, too, how those poor professors never seemed to have much of a life outside of their daily teaching. It's even better, since it's building on her previous comments. I'd love to know the answer to this! Thanks for such a great suggestion.

Thanks! I did win, though I still find it hard to believe. I got the word while I was in Montreal.

Augh - I feel so awful about this! Between your post and several of my students' and friends' emails, I ended up with several very kind (and appreciated!) reminders to enter in the eleventh hour. I really wish I could take everyone, or at least get autographs for everyone. I'm sorry. :( If you teach yourself to be an animagus between now and then, though, aim for a cricket or beetle or something, and I'll bring you along in my purse!

Well, I still feel guilty. :) I do plan to take notes at the Q&A and write up a report to share with everyone, though. I'll post it on LJ. I'm looking forward to seeing what Valancourt's super special mystery publication is, by the way - sounds exciting!

Thanks so much! She is, isn't she?

Thank you so much! It sounds like she's everything I expected her to be - I can't wait.