I'm so happy I could cry

That one's true. This conference has been one of the best experiences of my life. A hell of a lot of work but, man, my ego is so inflated, Sam had to butter my head to get it out the door this morning.
So, all 40 photogs (Pulitzer prize winners and me included) each got an assignment on Wednesday. Mine was Pearl Bakery, an old-school, traditional bakery downtown. We had Thursday and Friday to shoot, get audio and produce a Soundslide presentation. I had never used audio equipment, gathered sound or used the many programs necessary to process it all. Anyway, after two 15-plus hour days, I got it done and have had amazing feedback on the audio, photography and presentation. Each group of photographers were assigned coaches. My coaches included the photo editor from News and Observer in Raleigh, a photo producer from the New York Times and, the man himself, the creator of SoundSlides. I've been approached about possibly doing freelance for the New York Times and it was suggested to me that I pitch travel and outdoors' photo/story packages to the Wall Street Journal. I'm meeting with an editor of the Los Angeles Times later today. HOLY SHIT! This is amazing. I'm spinning. I'm exhausted. This has been a huge boost to my career and I'm leaving Portland more inspired than I've ever been in my life. I'm impossible to be around right now. Just ask Sam.
Peace