As expected, I had a good time at Marscon this year. The people at this con; the organizers, the volunteers, the performers and guests, and the attendees are, at this point, like family – Marscon feels like coming home. You guys are awesome, and you really know how to make a person feel welcome, appreciated, and loved.

I did struggle a little bit (as I mentioned on social media during the event) – I was coming off a not-entirely-great week in terms of brain chemistry (Depression is indeed a bitch), and I felt a lot of pressure (most of it self-inflicted) to, as part of the Musical Guest of Honor, really deliver my A-Game in terms of performance and interaction. I think I *mostly* succeeded; I hope if you came to a show this weekend, you enjoyed it and had a good time.

I could do the name-drop thing, but that’s kind of pat by now. My interactions with folks were really great; I appreciated, and really needed, I think, all the kind words, hugs, congratulations (because apparently I looked good!), free drinks, and occasionally deep and meaningful conversations that you guys all provided, in multitudes. As I say, I really tried to be my best self as well; I really hope I left you feeling as affirmed and loved as you made me feel.

Some highlights (beyond the general love and acceptance) were our Saturday show, where we got to share some of our best work with people, both in terms of songs, but also because we managed to incorporate some of our kids into the show – Liam joined us on piano for “Kiss in the Rain” (probably my favorite tune on the new album), and Mary and Catherine jumped up for dance support on “Raised By Nerds”; people really seemed to enjoy both. Also, I got to meet one of my favorite authors, the wonderful Carrie Vaughn, in person, and I found her to be just as cool and awesome as I’d hoped, based on her work, her writing, and our occasional interaction in web site comments over the years. It was a treat.

So yeah, it was a good one, even if I did appear out-of-sorts occasionally (especially Friday night, though I wasn’t the only one who noticed the energy at Filk and Cookies was off). Thanks again to Butch and the crew who put on a great con every year, Scott and Kirsten for letting a schlub like me tag along and make music, all the other performers who offer such great support, encouragement, and friendship, and dammit, just about everybody there – you’re all awesome.