But this year, I really really wanted to go.  I am running a web business, working on social media plans, engaging daily with new technology and testing new ideas – I really should be at one of the top interactive conferences of the year, right?  And the music – oh the music!

This year has been big for Big Sea.  Like mega-uber-big.   So it wasn’t in the cards.

Just to make myself feel better, here are a few reasons I’m not at SXSW this year.  (I’d make a list of why I should be there but it would be waaaaay too long.)

1. I opened an office!  Big Sea grew and grew beyond the scope of my back deck and home office.  I found I needed better separation of work and home life, and needed people around me too.  I’m an extrovert, after all.   Anyway, opening the office meant new computers (and of course, they can’t be anything but Mac), rent, all of the expenses I didn’t have when working from home.   Financially, it didn’t make sense to spend a few grand on the conference this year.
2. I have a 15 month old daughter. I know my husband and parents are more than capable of caring for her in my absence, but I would miss her!  Ok, this isn’t a really strong reason, but it’s a contributor.
3. We are swamped.  I had 4 new client meetings this week, am trying to push 2 HUGE development projects forward to launch April 1 and simultaneously finish 2 fairly large design projects.  In addition, I need to keep up with the numerous and ongoing needs of all of my clients. New web content or features, eblasts and ideas galore.  Not that this ever changes.  I’m always swamped, and I always feel guilty taking time away.
4. I’m afraid of flying. Nope, not true.
5. My cat needs to get her tonsils out.  Also no.
6. It might rain.  (I love rain.)

So I’m out of reasons, and the first three are pretty lame.   I should be there.

See ya next year!