If you’re in town, stop on by for some WordPress and BBQ! A bunch of fellow Automatticians  and WordPress lovers will be around to chat up.

RSVP for the event here: http://wpbbqsxsw09.eventbrite.com/

It was a awesome to finally meet (almost) everyone who we worked with on a daily basis, but only knew by IRC or Skype handle or by their Gravatar icons. The week was filled with great people, amazing food and beautiful views of Breckenridge. We had a chance to break up into groups to work on little side projects and that was a good exercise working with new people and a chance to do something a bit different than the norm. [Oh and there was also a bear sighting!]

Here’s a nice little family portrait we took in front of the main lodge(we’re a pretty good-lookin’ bunch if I say so myself!)

Photo courtesy of Donncha O Caoimh

Here are some more pics I took on Flickr and also check out the Automattic Flickr Pool.

On a side note, I’m putting together a WordPress Charity Scavenger Hunt the day after WordCamp on Aug 17th. The recipient of the proceeds will be local SF non-profit, 826 Valencia. They are dedicated to helping students develop their writing skills and promote literacy. They also have a really sweet pirate store and workshop space. If you’re interested in joining in the fun, sponsoring a team or donating please check out the event registration page.

What are some topics you’d like to hear about in the panel?

I wanted to take the time to gather my thoughts to talk about the truly good people who have impacted my life and basically helped me(whether they know it or not) get to where I am today.

My family – duh. They’ve taught me love, understanding, and discipline in all aspects of life. They done real good with their little girl

The Mighty Centaurs crew – My group of friends who I have known the longest. We have each other’s backs and lean on one another for everything and anything. Words cannot describe how much I love them. We are the greatest middle school gym class evar!

Ayo Babalola aka  AirNigeria – Ayo’s geeked out with me, cried with me and been basically stupid with me for some years now. I pretty much talk to him everyday and wouldn’t know what it would be like if I didn’t. He just gets me.

My girls – One half of the Mighty Centaurs crew. These are the women you want on your side and they will be forever. I love you, biznatches!!

Kelsey Ruger aka TheMoleskin – Kelsey is one of the greatest mentors and friends you could ever meet. He was a huge part of why I am here in San Francisco. He’s the kind of leader who sees your strengths and lets you run with it. He always pushed me to be better, do more and just kick-ass. Seriously, one of the baddest mofos you’ll ever run into.

Erica O’Grady – Erica is this ball of energy and love — you can’t help but be happy when you’re around her. She is utterly gifted and knows all her bizness. She’s one of my biggest cheerleaders and in large part to her, I’m an Automattician (Thank, Matt!!) Love you, Erica!

photo credit: Kelsey Ruger

Cindy Li – My dear Cindy… she was one of the first people that called me when I moved to San Fran. I was intro’d to her via email by Kelsey. I can say she is my closest and dearest friend here. She’s known to go above and beyond for others. She definitely has for me. The goodness that emanates from her is contagious and if you ever see us around, we’re almost always giggling while probably eating ice cream or cupcakes!

photo credit: Cindy Li

There is obviously a plethora of people I want to write more about who are good and have been good to me. If you read this and I know you, you’re definitely on that list of good people. I love you all and appreciate having you in my life. I am looking forward to spending more time with you in the future.

Thanks, @garyvee for this awesome idea. You’ve done a ton of good today

And with that, I’ll leave you with this:

• Got Social Media? Conference – Houston, TX
• BarCampTexas -Bryan, TX
• Bay Area Geek Girl Dinner #1 – Mountain View, CA
• Customer Service is the New Marketing Summit -San Francisco, CA

Oh, and my new job as a happiness engineer  here