This year I attended two festivals for the first time - new to me, I mean. It is always difficult to be the "odd man out" but my experience is that with some effort, I blend in.

I agree - reach beyond your usual group. Try a workshop you usually wouldn't. Find some new and talented friends.

The Getaway can be overwhelming. So many good people so happy to see each other again. So many new faces. So many incredibly talented people. Every year I crawl off to a lone park bench just to breathe and remind myself that I belong. I know for a fact that I am not alone.