Quiet and comfy chair

Between last night and today, I've made significant progress in my novel. I think it has to do with my new spot.

One of the windows in our living room has a view of the trees behind our house and little else. When I was having family time yesterday, I sat in the chair and realized that, with the big comfy chair turned to face it, I only saw the trees, sky, and grass. That's my ideal view (other than mountains or stormy oceans, but I don't have that kind of money).

I picked up my laptop, turned the chair, and put my earbuds in. Sure, I had to wrestle with the dogs who love to curl up on the footrest -- thus effectively blocking my random quest for a fresh cup of coffee -- but it is comfortable and quiet (when no one else is around).

I also had to remember that my times to write are either first thing in the morning (while the child sleeps in like the teen she is and husband is at work) or late in the evening (youtube and bedtime).

There are still struggles with the writing -- parts that I'm not sure are correct and will likely be revised later -- but the writing is happening. I am making progress and letting my voice wind its way through the writing as it should.

One of the things I've been thinking about is writing conferences. I've always wanted to go to the Writer's Digest conference in New York. I wonder if anyone can tell me about their experience with this (or another) conference.. Have you gone to one? What did you think? What did you gain?