I just got back from another amazing SQL PASS Summit – this time in Seattle. This year was different in that I knew people going into Summit. Last year I only knew some folks from Dallas and the alumni I was paired up with, Bill Fellows. I met a ton of new people last year and got to reconnect with them this year, and make new friends as well.
This past year also gave me the opportunity to make new friends from all the SQL Saturday events I attended and had the privilege to speak at – Las Vegas, Houston, Oklahoma City, Baton Rouge, Kansas City, Denver, and next month, Washington DC. Never have I traveled so much before but it has been worth it. I have learned so much – not just about SQL Server, but also about speaking and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
One thing that I am still in awe of is the amount of “nerd celebrity” you will meet at SQL PASS Summit and the SQL Saturday events. I am one of those people who could care less about the idea of meeting the typical Hollywood celebs, but put me in front some of the people at PASS Summit and I am starstruck. All that brain power in one location is something awesome to behold. And the sessions aren’t bad either.
A few things to note…
Thanks to Matthew Brimer for the opportunity to attend the Brent Ozar pre-con with him. It was awesome!
Thanks to the Midnight DBA’s. They never fail to impress.
Thanks to all the sponsors that threw all the amazing parties. My liver also thanks you.
To Denny Cherry and the invention of Speaker Idol – what an opportunity for those presenting as well as those of us who were just there to watch. Great idea! Thanks for making this happen.
To all those that belted some tunes at the various #sqlkaraoke events – you were awesome but it is good you have your SQL Server careers to fall back on. 🙂
Finally, to my #sqlbitches – you know who you are. Keep it real, yo <insert secret hand gesture here>.
See y’all next year…if not before.