Well, today was the final day of Keycon, Winnipeg’s annual SF&F convention. I was recruited by one of the co-chairs early this year, who I happened to work with. I will forever be in his debit. This was my first con and not only did I learn so much, but I was also a part of it’s success. Granted it was just a small part, I was a guest liaison for one of the author’s attending the con.
However for me, this was not just any guest. She’s a Canadian science fiction and fantasy author with many successful novels & short stories under her belt as well as an acclaimed, albeit short-lived, television adaptation of her successful Victoria Nelson series. Yes, I’m talking about none other than the incredible Tanya Huff. I’ve been reading her work for years, and she’s been one of my top three authors for nearly as long as I’ve been reading her.
4 days and a grand total of 4.5 hours sleep over those four days, and I’ve learned much more than I could have dreamed. As an avid writer, my appreciation for this weekend is unparalleled. To be able to spend so much time with, and gain so much knowledge from, someone that I’ve long admired has been an incredible experience. Among the other guests this year were the Great Luke Ski, Eric Flint, Jane Yolen, David Mattingly, Liana K., Robert J. Sawyer and Jennifer C. Wilkes. All of whom were amazing. We were lucky enough to have Luke Ski close off the con with a stellar performance of Fanboy.
Despite the fact that I was at the con all day as well as working my normal night job, I had an amazing time and it will take something very spectacular to top this weekend. Even if I was over-caffeinated, sleep deprived and far too stimulated.
