Thinking about this weekend’s Mensa convention, and wondering why I don’t post nearly as much about the Mensa weekends as I do about the science fiction weekends. I know part of it is that the costuming at sf conventions is a lot of my posting: pictures of attendees in costume, who are wearing those costumes it in order to be seen, to be noticed, to be on display.

But I think perhaps part of the difference is that science fiction conventions—as much as they are a fun and enjoyable part of my life—are work. I’m there “on the job” (and yes, I’m very lucky that they can be both for me). Mensa conventions, on the other hand, are much more “personal” or “family” time—even though, as an officer, they actually are (to a degree) work (even though it’s unpaid work). Perhaps some of the difference is that there is no “display” at the Mensa conventions: no one is there to be seen, to be noticed. The people who do sometimes wear costumes (whether for a specific event, or simply because they enjoy it) are again (or so it feels to me) doing so simply for “us,” not to be on display.

So, even though in both cases I’m often “on stage,” speaking on panels or giving solo presentations; or I’m “working” (as an editor and publisher at one; as an officer and leader at the other); and there is ample time for me to be not-working, but just enjoying myself as an attendee… still, there is some difference in my mind that says “I take pictures and post about science fiction conventions, but I don’t do so at Mensa conventions.”

So, in short, I had a great time at New Hampshire Mensa’s Regional Gathering this weekend. Got very little sleep, ate poorly (too much yummy food that wasn’t good for me), accomplished the “work” I was intending to, while leaving a lot of time for the fun I expected. Met some great new people, and had wonderful times with all the long-term friends I spent time with. Didn’t have nearly enough time to do everything I wanted to. And now I’m exhausted, but looking forward to return to the regular work week energized from the weekend. Yes, I’ve had two successful conventions on this trip, but I’m really looking forward to (finally) getting back home tomorrow.

I’ve been home for more than a week, so I guess it’s time for another convention. This weekend, it’s Chicago Area Mensa’s HalloweeM Regional Gathering (in Wheeling). Since it’s not a science fiction convention, there’s no dealers’ room, so it’ll mostly be not-work for me, but if you’re looking for me, I will be participating in the “Meet Your National Board of Directors (AMC)” session Friday at 10:30am in the Elm Room. And then I’ll be giving a special presentation on “The Eye of Argon” that same day, at 5:30pm in the Willow Room. Other than those two scheduled events, I expect I’ll be hanging out in Hospitality or Games, and of course at the Costume Contest and Pretentious Drinking, and out and about. Hope to see all you Mensans there!