SXSW this year was fantastic! I built my foundation last year (it being my first), so this year I had loads more fun partying with my existing friends, meeting lots of new people and scheming new ideas. The panels were OK and the conference center floor plan was horrible — but then again SXSW is really about the networking.

Sadly I returned with what is now widely known as the SXSW Scurvy! It seems everyone who went to the 5 day conference came back with a bad strain of the flu. To make everyone feel better Stephanie Trimble, Josh Gillick and I put together a giant Get Well card and patient registry for all who are infected.

Not only did I return with the scurvy, I also came back with a sprained ankle and now I need to wear this walking boot for 4 – 6 weeks.

All-in-all though, it was totally worth it. I extended my network in many important directions and had a great time with friends. I’m already planning a list of panel ideas in hopes of actually speaking at the 2009 conference. The ideas are revolving around JavaScript, how social sites connect people in real life and easy progressive enhancement techniques. I’m hoping that next year will have a stronger technical path and design panels with fresh information and strategies.

More photos from SXSW.

I received word from the SXSW planning committee that my panel idea was not chosen for the 2008 SXSW schedule. I can’t say that I’m surprised, since documentation isn’t a very exciting or compelling topic.

I still would like to contribute to a SXSW topic, so if you’re putting together a panel and need another person, let me know. Personally I specialize in standards based web development where my target areas are:

• Unobtrusive and accessible JavaScript
• Semantic [X]HTML/CSS
• Logical use of XHR (i.e. don’t use it for everything — only where it matters)
• Discussing where certain Web 2.0 and Ajax patterns are over used and abused

If you’re interested, leave me a comment below and I’ll get back to you. Don’t send me an email since I get too much spam at my public address.

It’s official, I’m going to be attending The Ajax Experience in San Francisco July 25 – 27th. I expect it to be a great opportunity to get around my peers, network and hear about a lot of really cool stuff. The schedule looks packed and the list of speakers is impressive.

If you’re going to be there, lets get together for some drinks and general geekiness. Leave a comment below with your email (which will be kept private) and I’ll get back to you. Don’t send me an email, because my @mozmonkey email system is not working right now.

If you see me there, reach out a hand and say “Hello”. Here’s what I look like. And here’s a more recent picture by Dustin Diaz on the 4th of July.