I've been around here for a few years now, introduced to the site in early 2006 by a member who's since been banned but remains a close friend. I've written precious few diaries (mainly due to lack of time) but I've pretty much always got a window open to this place and often confound my family by telling them the news that the MSM hasn't reported yet.
I wasn't really connected to the community when YK06 happened, it slipped past without me really noticing it.
I watched jealously from afar when Yearly Kos 07 happened .. it was a busy year, we had just moved and started a new job, and there was just no way to fit it in that summer's schedule.
When NN08 was scheduled in Austin, by compatriot and I registered early and planned on attending, but when the time came closer it was again obvious that neither of us were going to be able to put things together due to family/other obligations .. and we vowed to do it in 09 for sure!
heh
We again bought early registrations when first offered, but soon thereafter my buddy found he had an annual commitment that was on the same weekend. Not wanting to miss out yet again (and especially when it was within driving distance), I inquired with Mrs. Zeke to see if she might be interested in attending with me. To my surprise she said sure :)
So .. here we are in a hotel a couple miles from downtown (through not having the foresight to reserve wed night before the window closed) thinking about what it's going to be like.
I was thinking that perhaps this diary could serve as a place where newbies could ask questions, and previous attendees could offer tips.