I’ve arrived back home from my trip to the Necon writer’s conference in Rhode Island, and am happy to report that it was an experience I will never forget. The conference was all it had been built up to be and more, full of writers who were there for no other reason than to enjoy each others’ company in a relaxed, easygoing atmosphere.

Within a couple of hours after I arrived, it was clear to me why this conference was referred to as “Camp Necon.” I met my two roommates: one a 20-year old newcomer, the other a guy my own age, also a Necon first-timer. We talked just long enough to feel like old friends, and then headed out to see what sort of trouble we could get into.

Everyone gathered in the quad outside the Roger Williams University dorms as evening fell over the campus. The grill was fired up, and the famous RI “Saugies” (a type of hot dog unique to the region) hit the flames. Well-known authors such as Peter Straub and David Morrell mingled with the rest of us until late into the night. Much later, in fact, than I’m used to these days, and I felt it in my bones the next morning.

But this was not the time or place to stay in bed, and so by 10 am on Friday I found myself among a throng of Necon attendees making their way through the minigolf course, in pursuit of an elusive Necon Olympic medal. It was not to be, however. Our foursome was “minigolf challenged,” so to speak. That was followed by several panel discussions and movie screenings, and the mass author signing that evening. Again, a very late night, and as I dragged myself to bed I wondered if I would feel quite the same ever again.

Saturday I managed to get up in time to make a panel discussion on Shameless Self-Promotion at 10 am, which was full of good ideas (have your grandmother wear a button that says “ask me about my grandson’s book? Sure, why not?) This was followed by more panels, and then the famous Necon softball game that afternoon. The game was somewhat disappointing, since it only went 3 innings—but it was hot, and most of the players were so tired (and frankly, uncoordinated) that they were risking permanent injury at any moment. That evening it was time for the Trivia Game Show and then the worst-kept secret of all time, the Necon Roast. The poor victim for this year was Phil Nutman, who is a heck of a good sport in addition to a fine writer.

You guessed it—another late night—and on Sunday, it was time to give our feedback on the whole experience and enjoy the farewell picnic before heading on home. Made the trip in a little over an hour, buzzing on caffeine and struggling to keep my eyes open. Though I was already missing the whole Necon scene, it was good to see my family again.

Hard to believe I spent over three days at Roger Williams. Overall, I met and/or got to know people who will surely be friends for life (Jimmie Z, Mike, Kelly, Jared, Nanci, Jeff and Lynne, and many, many others), and have stories that I will never forget.

And never tell here.

After all, some secrets should remain buried…

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