It all started with one trip to Austin

It all started with one trip to Austin and San Antonio. There were a couple of events in which my friend Jennifer Navarrete got me speaking gigs. I'm never one to say, "no, I don't have anything to say". On second thought, I do say that; but, in this case, it was on topics that I like. So, that took me away from home for a few days. I spent the weekend in San Antonio and even got to visit my brother.

The next trip to Austin was for South by Southwest Interactive, aka SxSWi. This is always a great deal of fun to attend. I don't get to go every year; making it especially attractive. As per tradition, I did not attend any of the sessions. There were plenty of events happening afterwards to keep me busy.

My third trip to Austin was for work. Our office attended a redistricting conference organized by the National Conference of State Legislators. It was an intense few days about all the little details involved in drawing districts for elected officials. That was followed by a hearing for the House Select Committee on Emergency Preparedness, which I helped organize.

That's three trips to Austin/San Antonio in one month. At this point I am fried and backed up on all kinds of work. BUT, I did learn some things.

• A smart phone is great for keeping in touch with your people. You can call, text, email, MMS, tweet, etc...


• A smart phone bites for doing any web work. You won't be doing any serious blog tweaking or writing.


• You need to keep up with the stream of what is going on if you want to have a good time.


• Don't keep up with the Joneses. If you have work to do, you should call it a night and hit the hotel.


• Transportation makes the difference between a good time and an OK time. You need your own wheels.


• Even if you plan to work every day of your trip, don't just pack your fancy pants. You need grunge to relax.


• Talk to the bartender.


• Take advantage of the hotel exercise equipment.


• Don't eat the entire restaurant portion; you'll put on weight.


There is plenty more I learned. More posts to come.