One thing that I heard and overheard again and again during this conference was, "You don't look anything like your profile pic."  I continue to be fascinated by how new media is a driving force behind relationship development in our industry,  no one seems to get enough of it or talk too much about it.  

There have been several individuals who have made a name for themselves in our community and how great was it that they were accessible to anyone who approached with an earnest interest in learning more about the individual or catch a couple words of wisdom.  John Sumser shared time with many, offering advice if asked or simply listening to an idea.  Gerry Crispin walked the Exhibit Hall often and shook many hands.  Susan Burns was seen chatting it up in this corner and that.  And our dear missing friend, Claudia Faust was present to prove that strength courses through our veins when we need it most.

Others milled about with a "learning" game plan.  "Talk to as many as possible."  Make that face-to-face connect or hand-to-hand contact.  We are driven by what?  We are motivated by whom?  

There seemed to be more vendors this year but what was most interesting was the crackling I heard in the roof at the end of every conversation.  The noise about how good 2010 was loud and clear; it is getting better .  

How do we not embrace a truth with incredible possibilities?  We just do and we share our enthusiasm about it.   It's the crackling of the roof, I tell you, for it is about to be blown off.  I like what I learned. And the noise is beautiful.