I wish I could attend, but I can't afford it right now (haven't even gotten my SCBWI membership yet). I attended the SCBWI conference in Burnaby, and that was well worth the money. Much smaller than the one in LA. We had a total of six illustrators there plus the instructor. For me it's not just the money, though, it's being away from my baby (16 months) for three days. It might be easier next year, so I'll see what happens. I know you'll all have a blast (because I did at mine)!