I have never been to a science fiction convention before, but there are two happening relatively close by in the next couple of months, and I’m very tempted to attend at least part of each of them, if I can so arrange my schedule to do so. Balticon 41 is taking place over Memorial Day weekend and that is being held about 40 minutes north of where I live, which is extremely convenient. Even more exciting is Ravencon 2007 which is over the weekend of April 20-22. Ravencon is taking place in Richmond, Virginia, which is a 3 hour drive (or somewhat shorter train ride) south of where I live, and therefore, still within easy reach. What’s more, Robert J. Sawyer is the guest of honor. I’ve read at least 6 of his books, including his latest, Rollback which as serialized in ANALOG. It would be cool to meet him. Furthermore, Edmund Schubert, editor of INTERGALACTIC MEDICINE SHOW will be there. Edmund is the editor to whom I sold my first story, “When I Kissed the Learned Astronomer” and it would be nice to meet him in person too.

I have some minor scheduling conflicts to work out, but I’m going to see what I can do to make at least part of one or both of these conventions.