Last week, we headed to Portland for the Open Source Convention, lovingly known as OSCON, where thousands of open source software developers, system administrators and technology lovers from around the globe came to bask in the glory of unadulterated geek-speak. Naturally we had to gather our laptops and pocket protectors to be front-and-center at this event, since the promotion and development of open source is a subject dear to our heart. For those new to the phrase, open source promotes community involvement when building products, believing that collaboration and openness to review leads to the highest quality and most flexibility. We heartily agree, making this event high on our must-do list in '07.

We spent a lot of time enjoying the information exchange and general company of core PostgreSQL and PHP developers (those two technologies comprising Emma's database and the language her brain is written in, respectively). Erik Jones contributed his support by helping with the PostgreSQL table at the convention center – a booth that earned the unofficial distinction of having the most knowledgeable "army of nerds" in the exhibit hall (considering the crowd, that's quite a compliment). The conference sessions were a delicious (yes, delicious) array of topics on exciting new tools and technologies, and we've already felt the benefit of bringing them back home to Emma.

I also can't help but share my newfound love for Portland itself, and we explored the neighborhoods and parks using their excellent public transportation system until our cameras and feet simply couldn't take any more. From the pearl district to the famous Rose Test Gardens, we were completely charmed by the city and its culture. Portland, if it were possible to deck you in medals of awesomeness, we would do it.

In summary – new friends, new inspiration, and more pictures of roses than we've ever taken in our lives.

[tags]oscon, oscon2007, portland, postgresql, php, myemma.com[/tags]