Came home from Carnage last night which is a fantastic fall event held yearly in VT. I'm still tingling, or better put, still riding the post con high that I and many of my friends get after attending these events. It doesn't matter if someone gamed 24/7 or took breaks at night to gather for a party, fun was had by all.
I, like many of my friends, leave with fresh ideas for new adventures, new tatics to explore, a few goodies from the dealer hall, and lots of great stories. It's great to catch up with people I only see at the area cons and I always enjoy meeting new peeps along the way too. I can honestly say that I have yet to meet anyone who was unwilling to give me a place at a table as a newbie. Everyone is there to have fun and share in the experience. There is a great electricity in the air when hundreds of like minded people gather together with the sole purpose of enjoying their favorite hobby togehter. The fun is infectious.
Plus local cons are usually cheaper than the big shows with less travel, still packed with 100% great gaming goodness, are a good way to support your local gaming community, and a great (and usually needed) break from the ordinary hum drum of life. I walk away always feeling bouncy and filled with a renewed sense of excitment for gaming in general. I know I am not alone. 
