I was delinquent last week, but I’m back to say that I’m really, really glad I was delinquent.

I was in New York for the annual Novelists, Inc., Conference, a laid back writers conference that stresses informality and hands-on information about the publishing industry. Editors and agents mix with authors.

The news was depressing – sales are down everywhere in mass market – but the atmosphere wasn’t. We all are trying to find ways to survive in a tough market, and when one door closes, another usually opens. Readers – hint hint - run down and buy more books.

Most historicals are not doing well but young adult and inspirationals are growing by leaps and bounds. I’m delighted that young adult books are doing so well because it means those readers will become reading adults (Thanks be to all deities for Harry Potter).

There was a lot of talk about promotion via electronic means. More and more authors are moving beyond the website only and venturing into book trailers, new Multimedia Promotions, MySpace, Podcasting, etc. Being of an ancient age and among te electronically challenged, I ran for the door.

One of the finest moments was when I learned – after everyone else in the writing world – that I’d been nominated for a RITA in historicals. The book is “Beloved Warrior.” I loved it dearly but for several reasons did not expect it to final. I was without computer, and traveling when the calls went out on Tuesday. I had an appointment with my editor Wednesday morning and casually asked if she knew who had been nominated. She’d heard just a few names, none of whom had initials of PP.

So I went off on my day of great pleasures. I’d decided to indulge on this trip, and I have a passion for musicals. So Wednesday I went to a “Gypsy” matinee and to ”South Pacific” at night. Both were terrific.

Back at the hotel, my message light was blinking. My agent had left a voice message that I was a RITA nominee, as were Tara, Krissie and Maggie on this blog. Happiness and delight. Down to the bar for a glass of champagne.

Then bed with an extraordinary pillow menu. The hotel – the Affinia --is located across from Penn Station and is distinguished by a Pillow Menu. You have a choice of six pillows:

1. Swedish Memory (Relieves pressure with a unique, high density, self molding foam. Reacts to body temperature keeping sleepers cool in the summer and warm in the winter);

2. Buckwheat (Natural buckwheat hulls conform to the head and neck for maximum support and stress reduction);

3. Hypo-Allergenic (Relieves sneezing, morning headaches, sinus congestion and other symptoms associated with allergies to feathers, fibers and dust);

4. Magnetic Therapy (Reduces swelling and discomfort, relieves insomnia and fatigue, soothes tense muscles and aching joints and improves skin tone by stimulating circulation);

5. Sound Pillow (Deeply buried in the hypoallergenic fiberfill, the ultra-thin speakers create an intimate and soothing sound experience. Simply plug into your MP3 Player, CD player or radio); and

6. Down Pillow (The perfect blend of down and down feathers. This pillow is a classic favorite with medium firmness.)

I meant to try all of them but never got beyond number six. Good excuse to go back.

The next day was friend day. The greatest thing about being a writer is the network of friends you develop throughout the country. A gathering of writers is like a homecoming. I’d seen some of my fellow attendees six months ago, some six years ago. It was like yesterday with all of them.

Together we discovered an Irish Pub, the Mollie Wee Pub, and directed everyone else there. Wonderful fish and chips. Then there was the great New York pizza shop across the street, and a deli a block down and . . .

Well, you get the idea. . (Yes, I did gain ten pounds, thank you for asking).

Three more plays. “Curtains” and “In The Heights.” I recommend them highly. I ended the week with “Mary Poppins” which was totally eye popping. To make me feel a little less guilty, I found a great online service where tickets are often half price and the seats excellent. (Anyone who wants this secret, email me at papotter@aol.com)

I returned Monday from New York exhausted from working and playing. But very, very happy.

In fact, I feel I can conquer the world.