By: Shane Ramey
My first major convention experience was Dragoncon 2004.  I had heard all manner of
things about the convention for years and years, and was finally able to go.  I was
amazed by all the events the Con had to offer, the celebrities that were there, and
all the cool stuff they sold in the Dealers and Exhibitors Room.  But I have to say
that the biggest thing that blew me away were the people in costumes.  At first, I
thought they were people that worked for the convention, kind of like a Disney World
thing.  It wasn't until I began talking to people that I realized that they were
just fans like me. 
Bottom line, I feel in love with Dragon*con from day one, and have gone every year since.