When I missed the first Fest, and met up with Doug to loan him my GoPro, I had this huge feeling of jealousy and anger inside that I didn't get to attend. As soon as Doug drove off, I knew I was going to regret not being there. And when the random attendees were posting up their photos here during the event, I was so pissed at myself for not making time to be there that I swore I would never miss an event again. At the very least, for the next several years. I don't know what will be happening in my life year to year to truly plan that far ahead, but I know I will do everything in my power to attend so long as I never have that kind of feeling again.
I've met so many genuine people on this site that it's not just a hobby anymore. I may not have the bankroll to have a top-16 drag car or a track crushing autocross/road course monster, but just being able to attend and watch and live vicariously through those who do is something you can't do anywhere else. The fact that the people who can afford such pieces of artwork are so humble and willing to chat and share stories with those of us who are just happy to have a relatively stock vehicle speaks volumes of the character of this site and its members.
We all love our cars. And for one weekend out of the year we get to hang out with like-minded folks from all walks of life from all corners of the continent to share in that common bond. I've gained some absolutely amazing friendships that, had I never bought my Camaro, I NEVER would have met or socialized with. And it continues to amaze me how easily those friendships were forged over just a car and a forum.
Those friendships are the reason I never want to miss out again.
Now if I could just remember to bring the damn ice...
