This was one of the most balanced Pennsics in recent memory, with time spent socializing, taking classes, shopping, being productive and I even attended opening ceremonies for the first time in years (see the gallery below). As with any Pennsic, I made many new friends and got to know some a little better.

Though I say this every year, this Pennsic had to have been the best I'd ever been to. For the first time, I didn't get the Pennsic "giddyness" I usually get while on my way there. I think my mind has come to see Pennsic as a part of my life now, rather than an extraordinary event. Not that this makes it any less special for me; Pennsic feels like home to me more than ever.