[karen z]

I think you have heard it all. Layering is good for clothes as Steph said and it can definitely be chilly, windy, rainy at times (OR sometimes- all the time)- seems like I have a coat on most of the time outside and possibly inside (and one can dress casually or not- I really do not have many dressy clothes). Lunch is the only time one really has to seek out food (usually, it is all around you - especially at the evening events- truly an unbelievable amount). Also, one has to learn the food rules. There is food at the Hot Topics Sessions but ....don't eat too much......because there is even better and more food (and wine/deserts) at some of the later evening events. Breakfasts are usually covered free at one's hotel. So lunch seems the biggest issue although it seems that (over time) we have all learned how to find decent food at lunchtime (I know this doesn't sound good but you have to be there once to "get it"). Sometimes I just skip lunch (as do others)- one can grab some extra stuff at breakfast like fruit, etc.. There are so many good presentations, posters, events that one has to understand that it is not possible to see/hear everything (I learned that the hard way my first year). One can always pick up posters handouts "after the fact' so I have learned to try and go to the major sessions during the day and then go the Mentor sessions (fabulous) and later events (also fabulous). I also like the "wrap up" of the year on the last day. I drink a LOT of coffee when I am there. And somehow, even with all going on, I can almost promise that everyone will find their way to the across the street Macy's at least once (really a tradition at this point) and right next to the River Walk. I don't think it is possible to go to the conference and not walk part of the River Walk at least once. A good way to unwind. There is SO MUCH information presented that it is almost unimaginable. Quite something. Can't wait .......but thank God it is not next week as I need to finish teaching my classes before I can get out of here !!! k