I've been to a bunch of SAS Global Forum (née SUGI) events over the years. I always look forward to going, because I always think that by being there in person, I'll be able to provide some customers with exactly the information they need to use SAS better. And I think that by meeting with customers face-to-face, I'll gain some insight that I didn't have before, and I'll be able to go back to headquarters and improve our software.

I psych myself up for the event, because I think that having thousands of SAS users in one place will generate unprecedented excitement and new ideas for how to get more done by using SAS. Sometimes, I even think that I'll make connections with folks that will carry on beyond the conference, and I'll gain some new virtual colleagues from around the world.

And do you know what? My already-high expectations are always exceeded. I can already sense the excitement from the buzz on Twitter.

It's going to be tough to top last year's conference for me. At SAS Global Forum 2009, I enjoyed an eventful bus ride to DC. I met Dave Barry. I was interviewed for "Inside SAS Global Forum". I presented a paper to an eager audience. I managed to capture a few pictures.

Still, I believe that SAS Global Forum 2010 has the potential to be even better. I'm excited about the SAS software that I'm bringing to show off. I'm looking forward to visiting Seattle. And most of all, I can't wait to reconnect with colleagues and make new connections that will sustain me until next time.