And now a new feature for the Memory Project -- Bouchercon '08 countdown, with tips and advice on what to do while in Baltimore, and what do you mean you're not coming?

Today's tip: Vanessa's Vintage Treasures, 1132 S. Charles Street.

This is a mile-plus due south of the hotel and the windows alone are worth a visit. The eponymous Vanessa, who describes herself as self-taught, puts together amazing tableaux appropriate to the seasons, changing them once a month on average. If you're used to shopping in big cities, her prices for vintage jewelry (especially Bakelike), bags, hats and glassware will seem like relatively bargains, but Vanessa knows the worth of her wares. They're just orderly enough, so one still has the thrill of the hunt. Once, when her windows went undecorated for a few days, a mutual friend inquired if she was okay and Vanessa reportedly said: "I'm fine, I just have window block."

If you go: Plan to have lunch at Cross Street Market, whose food stands include a good raw bar, sushi, several sandwich places (egg salad at Big Jim's!) and a barbecue joint. Or stop by Spoons for coffee and a wrap.