Last year in Chicago was my first National since 2004 as this is always a busy time of year for me. I had a great time, met some great people, and had planned to go again this year but had to cancel those plans a couple weeks ago due to work obligations. After reading all the show reports and watching several YouTube videos the last couple of days I feel much better now about not making the show this year.
My perks for missing the show: I saved $2k in travel expenses, instead of dealing with all the headaches listed above I was able to drive straight into my garage last night and park for free, had piping hot pizza for dinner and a visit from my sister-in-laws family with our four cute nieces, the AC was great in our house, there were plenty of bathrooms with no lines, not a Pelican case in sight, and as far as new cards go I'm positive REA will fill that void in about 16 days.
There's always a bright side to every situation.
