altivo

Well, despite this country pony's discomfort with traffic snarls and suburban sprawl, I managed to find the hotel in time to get registered and attend the opening sessions. It's a big crowd, I heard that the final attendance numbers may approach 1000 for the first time.

The guests of honor are interesting and I managed to talk at some length with Dave Gilbert about his Buckles strip (one of my favorites.) I did not know Ursula Vernon's art before now, but I will be watching it in the future.

I feel old. I estimate that 90% of attendees are half my age or less. I am also apparently the only equine displaying a tail or other attributes. The fursuiters are impressive, friendly, and amusing but they are all felines and canids, vulpines and raccoons. I've noticed one dragon and one okapi, and a bear or two. So far I've met

animist and

vakkotaur briefly, as well as

the_gneech who helped present two of the panels I attended. No sign of

xydexx or

rigelkitty yet, though they are supposed to be there.

The art auction contains some impressive pieces, but I'm out of wall space and managed not to bid. I may give in tomorrow though and put in a bid or two. The dealer's room definitely offers some goodies I must have, for myself and for gifts.

Today I went to sessions on spirituality and art, and listened to Uncle Kage's amusing ravings. I wish I could have seen the Variety Show, but since it's scheduled for midnight to two AM, it's beyond my waking range. Us old folks are normally asleep well before that. Tomorrow morning it's