Matt, great post!

I managed to make it to this years convention for the final day. I didn't go to buy chips, and I'm sure a bunch of dealers wish that had been my reason for being there.

I went to see people, friends that are only in the same place once a year. That's what a major part of a hobby is! At least that's what it is to me! While we all want to add to what we collect, you don't have to travel to do so, and you don't have to meet the people involved if you don't want to with the high tech tools for buying stuff these days.

Personally, I take great joy in interacting with other people who have a habit that is, all at the same time, passionate at any level you choose it to be, costs as much or as little as you want to invest, and has an ever-expanding core group of viable experts willing to share their knowledge for free online. That said,(BUY THEIR BOOKS! They're worth every cent!

Bob