The pieces fell into place at the last minute for us to attend Trinocon, so we scooted over there and enjoyed our first relaxacon.  We made a pretty full day of it, with lots of good panels, but my favorite panel would have to be the world building one in which we, the audience, got to set up parameters that the panelist had to work within to create an alien world.  Not sure who ended up contributing more, the panelists or the audience, but it was a highly enjoyable brainstorm fest.  It was clear that the panelist are all careful to keep their science realistic, and professional in their approach to writing.

An almost equally interactive panel, at the end of the day, was on the topic of ‘Panels from Hell’.  The setting was very informal, and there was a bit of a competition as to who could tell the worst panel or con story, but the guests still managed to keep their remarks on a professional level, for the most part, and avoid negative back-biting about former panel participants.  I was struck by how very important it is to remain always professional toward ones peers, as word does seem to get around.

Another highlight of the day was the Baen Traveling Road Show.  Except that, due to technical problems, in our case it was a laptop show.  But I got to meet a couple Baen people, see the new books coming out, and walk out with two free books.  What’s not to like?

The con environment must have jump-started my adrenaline for WorldCon.  I’ve already worked out what clothes we’ll be wearing for the different major events, such as the Regency Ball and Summerfair, but yesterday I picked out what I’ll wear for my panel, and started puzzling over what we should wear for the Hugos.  When you add in the dress, cap and gown I’ll use for my graduation on the tail-end of this trip, I’m wondering if there will be any room for normal clothes.  Perhaps I’ll wear the merchant/pirate get-up to the airport.  That’ll go over well, don’t you think?