Back from SXSW!

We flew out early this morning and the plane into Portland actually arrived a bit early, which was lovely. I was home by 12:30, did some minor catch up and then pretty much collapsed.

SXSW was an outstanding experience. Watching everyone's reactions to the ExpressionEngine 2.0 information was wonderful, and getting to meet our community, hear their stories, engage and interact with everyone was an experience that I will treasure. On a personal note, I received more hugs in the last two days than I ever would have dreamt of. I know I help a lot of people - but there's a bit of a disconnect there, since it's on the forums without faces or voices. Having people come up to me, ask if they can hug me and thank me, or shake hands or just wanting to chat is amazing. I had people that I've never spoken to who were incredibly grateful for my help because they found their answers without ever having to ask the questions. It was a very gratifying experience for me.

I even had the courage to say a few words on the open panel. Me - public speaking - if that isn't an accomplishment, then I don't know what is. I even survived the party without being a complete introvert, hiding in a corner somewhere. Though I think I need to take up lip-reading, I could barely hear what people were saying.

What it comes down to, though, is that this reaffirmed what a truly brilliant and engaging community EllisLab has brought together. More than that, this was a great experience to meet my workmates - who, by the way, are ... beyond words. Amazing, brilliant, wonderful, fun - doesn't do the team justice. I am truly blessed to work with such a wonderful team, and a wonderful community.

Comments (2)

I had a fabulous time, I can’t wait to go back.

BTW: did you get my response to your email? I was having trouble using SMTP from the hotel, a setup issue with the laptop that I’ll resolve one of these days.