Paul and I just returned from AnomalyCon, and boy, was that trip worth it. The con was just the right size, with friendly attendees. The costumes were astonishing, the panels wonderful, the show well-run. And I got to Tea Duel for the first time (current record: 1-1, with a dirty-nom victory, and a belated clean-nom loss)!

I had initially been very nervous about my panels, so I made up handouts, which the panel attendees snapped up, so I must have done something right. My fellow panelists were both knowledgable and welcoming, and made me feel right at home.

AnomalyCon also prides itself on being open and accepting of all its attendees, and has a superlative Anti-Harassment policy to back this up. I’ve been to some pretty sketchy conventions in the past, and this was not one of them. I felt completely safe and had a wonderful time, not a single problem and nothing but good things to say about my fellow guests and con-goers. What a fun time!

But of course, the very best moment of all was when Rebekah W. of Wandering Rabbit Cosplay surprised me with her Vögelein costume. I was completely floored seeing it in person. I fangirled my own fangirl. It was amazing. I am told that I squealed so loudly that other con-goers turned around to check on my safety, and so high that I hit a register usually reserved for dolphins. I also may have frightened Rebekah a bit in my rush to meet her, though she graciously forgave me. I am nothing if not enthusiastic.

Seriously, though — it’s hard to think of a higher compliment to pay an author than to dress up as one of her characters and drive across the state to meet her. I’d blogged about Rebekah’s costuming before, but seeing it in person was so incredible, and I’m so flattered that she took the time to make a special trip out just to meet me. I’m so lucky.

My only regret about this trip is that it wasn’t long enough! I had such a great time, and I hope that I can get back to Denver again soon when I can tack on a few extra days and go hiking in her mountains, rather than staring at them longingly.

Thanks again, Kronda, for inviting Paul and I out to AnomalyCon, showing us such a great time, and making us feel so welcome. You run a great show, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone in the Colorado area, steampunker or not.