Pensacola Beach, Florida
February 19 – 22, 2004
I just wanted to drop in a line and thank everybody for an absolutely fabulous time at our first Gulf Games. Some highlights for me:
* The fact that Sharon had a great time too. This was the first extended-weekend event she’s attended, and I suspect she spent far more time gaming (versus the beach or pool) than she thought she would. Mind you, her idea of games when I met her were Pinochle and Monopoly. I consider myself _very_ lucky that she has taken to gaming as much as she has. A big part of that, I believe, is the fact that the players she’s encountered (aka all of you) have been so friendly and enjoyable to be around.
* Getting to learn a lot of new (to me) games. I find it very useful to get to try before I buy. I also find that learning games from those such as Greg who are _very_ good at explaining rules quickly and clearly sharpens my own skills at doing the same. Good game-teaching ability is something that really comes in handy when trying to bring new gamers into the fold.
* Finally learning how to play Tichu. My thanx especially to Derk for putting up with a newbie partner. Hopefully I learned enough to survive in the shark-infested waters of the Gathering late-night Tichu crowd.
* Remaining undefeated in Coyote, though I paid the price of becoming Larry’s nemesis. 🙂
* Being one of the lucky few to get four picks from the prize table. Greg, I promise I _will_ try to learn how to play 6 Billion, and give you a report at the Gathering. 🙂
* Having the weather by and large cooperate. The weather was overall lousy before GG, and turned lousy again afterward. I can neither confirm nor deny that I had any hand in keeping the heavy rains at bay, but I’ll take any credit that comes my way. I sure get my share of the blame when the storms roll in! 🙂
I’ve already registered for Gatlinburg, though at present it looks like I’ll be solo — Sharon will likely be tied up with a project at work. Hopefully I can nudge the weather gods to come through again!
Take care all!