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Hello Friends,

Years ago, I used to boast that the only times I’d been to Las Vegas were while passing through en route to protest at the Nevada Nuclear Test Site.

I can’t say that anymore.

These days, I go to Vegas far more often than I ever wanted to, which was never. I don’t go to shows while there. I don’t gamble. And since my brain injury, I don’t even drink alcohol. Also, I’m an introvert who dislikes crowds and noise, cigarette smoke, and desert air. I know some people love it, but for me—physically and psychically—Vegas is brutal.

So why do I go? I go to hang out with writers, sometimes to talk craft, and other times, business. I go to Vegas to step past the edges of my comfort zone.

Vegas is a massive shift away from my usual writerly life. It's a hostile-to-me environment where I talk to strangers and old friends, and stretch myself to learn something new.

This past week, I masked up and attended Author Nation with nine hundred other writers. I moderated an LGBTQ panel, sat on a Kickstarter panel, took notes during session after session, and had many conversations in the hallways, on walks, and over meals. I learned a lot that I plan to sift through over the next several months.

And now? I feel exhausted, but inspired and full. And really need to do some laundry. As a result, I don’t have much to say today, but wanted to share some of the photos I snapped while there.

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I hope you are keeping well and taking care of yourself. I'd also like to know:

What takes you out of your comfort zone and helps you learn new things?

Best wishes — Thorn

There's a new podcast episode! This one with artist, crafter, and witch Raven Edgewalker. Enjoy on your favorite podcast outlet or YouTube.

If you listen on iTunes, might you consider leaving a quick review?

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