Future Cons

My mind is decidedly one-track these days. Despite having written out some new story ideas, I haven't gotten much actual writing down. Revising, yes. So there's some good in that.

But mostly I'm thinking about the future. I'm intrigued by more Cons than I can possibly manage (damnit, COSine, why'd you have to get Sharon Shinn??), but here's the list of ones I do hope to attend in the future:

BayCon 2011: in late May, featuring Toastmaster Martin Young
Westercon 64: July 4th weekend in San Jose featuring GoH Patricia A. McKillip (squee!)
Renovation 2011: Conveniently in Reno, NV August 17 - 21

I think, in addition to writer's groups, workshops, etc. I may be able to manage one more. This year I participated in Taos Toolbox as well as NASFiC. I'm debating trying to get to MileHi Con, but that might be a bridge too far.

How do people manage all of these conventions? And more importantly - how do they resist!?

NASFIC 2010

My first con is officially over, and I'm still processing all that occurred! NASFiC 2010 was held in Raleigh, NC and attended by about 700 people, including five of us from Taos.

I arrived very early Thursday, August 5th and managed to catch the tail-end of a mini-Taos reunion. After a solid nap, we went and heard Tom Doyle, Mary Robinette Kowal and Matt Rotundo read from their various works. All were very good, and all taught me something about storytelling.

Thursday evening began the "meet-and-greets" (since the Mariott would not let us have suite parties). These were not at all like I was expecting. The atmosphere was decidedly casual; you could pretty much drop into any conversation. Alcohol flowed freely, and the pros mixed with the fans. I loved it.

Friday was spent hopping from panel to panel, all of which I enjoyed immensely. "Worst Panel Ever" is definitely my pick for the con, because they made it funny, gave great advice, and actually energized the audience. Love it!

Saturday felt much the same as the day before - panels, schmoozing, meet-and-greets. I was tired, but not exhausted. It was invigorating to meet the panelists, as well as authors and editors I had heard so much about.

I've definitely learned quite a few things (bring fun stuff for the evenings, but costumes aren't really that useful), and I'm very much looking forward to the next con!!

Reconstruction 2010

In an effort to stay on the horse, I have signed up for the Reconstruction NASFIC 2010, occurring this August in Raleigh. I haven't been to North Carolina before, so that will be my 32nd state. Yipee!

Beyond adding to my travel tally, I'm quite excited to reconnect with a handful of the Taos Toolboxers and meet many more industry professionals. Some of the panels look absolutely awesome, and I had to admit that I'm looking forward to the dances in the evenings.

I've been working on a short story to submit for a workshop there. Eric (the boyfriend) supplied me with a concept that I've been kicking around all week. The story is incredibly heavy on the dialogue, but since it's set in the near-future on earth, I'm not to worried about it. Hoping to get some feedback this weekend!

Meanwhile I shall resist looking at steampunk and masquerade outfits online. Yes. Somehow. Must... keep... writing...