

So, a few days have passed since everyone has left ABQ. We're getting back into the mode of just being regular people again, without a crowd of cute gay girls following us around town and cheering every time we kiss or say something funny.
I just wanted to tell you how much this weekend meant to me. I say "me" and not "us" because I think that Elka will probably post something, too.
It's difficult to put into words how much this gathering has meant to me. I tried to tell you at the party, but I just burst into tears.
When we sat down to do our first podcast, we wondered if we should be "characters" or just be ourselves. We decided to just be ourselves. We started talking about a television show. As time went by, we incorporated more and more of our own lives into the podcast. We were receiving loads of emails. Many of the emails were just telling us this week's booby count. But, some of them were heartfelt letters about struggles, relationships, coming out, etc. We knew that we couldn't handle it on our own. So, we started the Planet Forum. People joined by the thousands. People connected. A community of online friends quickly formed. People who thought they would never meet others like themselves were suddenly surrounded by love, support, and a common sense of humor.
At the party, when everyone was yelling "Speech! Speech! Speech!", I tried to express that this whole thing really is about all of you. I've never seen a more joyous crowd of people in my life. You immediately came together as friends and spent four days celebrating your friendships. I am so proud of all of you, as a group and individually. I know some of your stories and I know how much you've grown. Every one of you is so funny and strong and lovable. I know that you're going to do great things and lead happy, healthy lives. And, if we had anything at all to do with that, we're the lucky ones. That's what I was trying to say during the "speech" at the party. Don't you see? It really is all about you!
We laughed, we marched, we screamed, we danced, we drank, we celebrated, and we made a lot of friends who will last forever. The photos are dripping with happiness.
From my perspective, the entire four days were completely overwhelming. It turned out so much better than I'd ever imagined. I mean, I've been to some great parties... but, THAT party... come on!... that party was incredible!
When it was all done and over with, Elka and I went back to our house and cried for a long time. The tears were filled with love and pride. We were overwhelmed with emotion. You have given us the most wonderful feeling inside. Thank you all for loving us... just the way we are. We love you, too!
-KC