The last day of a convention is always bittersweet. Barely a breath was taken over the last breakfast as the girls at the table tried to swap stories with a speed most writers use when approaching deadline. Mary, Cherie, and I finally managed to walk through the dealers room, where I also happened to finally meet and thank in person the very sweet Anne Zanoni. We hooked up with E. Bear and the Monettes (which sounds like a great band name — quick, what’s their first single?!) and had our last lunch. One by one we hugged goodbyes…until finally, it was my turn to reluctantly make the rounds and depart. It’s always so tough to leave new friends with whom I’ve just fallen in love and old friends with whom I never have enough time to catch up, but I suppose one or two weekends a year is more facetime than most people have to connect, so I am grateful for each moment.
This convention was lovely for me–instead of burnt-out, I’m home now feeling smiley and rested. I had no panels to be on, no real schedule to keep, and I was always surrounded by beautiful, smart, funny, and generous friends. Like a geek spa, if you will, and just as humid. I’m glad John had a birthday (and I look forward to many more!). I’m honored that Doselle and Krissy and Anne invited me. And I wonder, in some corner in the back of my mind, if the folks at Penguicon realized exactly how many amazing people in SF graced their presence this weekend. *I* know. For they graced mine.