A World of Thanks

I just figured out why Rip Van Winkle slept those 20 years. I heard he was at an IDEA World Fitness Convention and went home to take a little nap, but he was so physically and mentally spent that he slept right through the alarm (for a couple of decades). I reckon I’m in for a pretty lengthy nap just as soon as I proof this bad boy and send it over to Billy Pease and Gus Aguirre, the IDEA IT whizzes who made this phenomenal convention editorial-photo-video blog possible. Thanks so much, guys. Fantastic job. Hats off, likewise, to all IDEA staff, assistants, presenter faculty and exhibitors who pulled every last stop to make this event "a real barn burner," as they say back around Illinois-way, where I grew up. A 25-year celebration that put more than 7,500 people through the doors never came off so well. Not counting our volunteer crew of 300 assistants, this event is planned over the course of a year by a mere 30-plus souls. Of course, they are 30 of the most exceptional and talented people I’ve ever worked with, but still, it’s not that many bodies to pull off something as seamless as this monster event. We work hard and play harder. Way to go IDEA team! To our cherished members: We would not be here without you! Each of you gives us a strong purpose. You give our work meaning and focus. We are in this Inspire the World to Fitness™ mission with you, to support you. Let us know what we can do to help you in your quest for excellence. And last here, but always first on my list, I wanted to recognize the IDEA editors and contributing editor Alexandra Williams, who all stepped up without question (and on very short notice) to take on this blog—adding a considerable amount of extra work and pressure to the framework of what are already jam-packed coverage assignments. Kate, Joy, Margie, Ryan and Alexandra…you are amazing observers and writers. You’ve brought this fine, fine celebration of the industry to life for the rest of the world to experience through your eyes, thoughts and feelings.I may be weary now, but for those of you who know my normal energy level, look out! I banked the spirit and energy I absorbed from the experience of the last 5 days for future use. We’re 26 next year and that means it only gets better, friends. If you missed this one, start planning to attend in 2008, because we always try to top the previous year, silver anniversary or not. Be well. Be happy. Be in touch, okay?