An emotional but spectacular first night is complete

So tonight I held the 4th edition of #MSMVP, a chance for Microsoft MVPs to come from behind blogs, websites and forums to meet the community face-to-face, shake hands and network. In the four events that I’ve put together for this event, this is the second time that a rush of emotion has overwhelmed me now that I’ve had time to sit in a room and soak in everything that has happened.

I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t say that the level of support that I saw from MVPs, the product teams and MS employees had put me on the verge of tears a few times during the evening. Of course, more social events prevent such things from fully taking place but now that I’m sitting in this room with “I, Robot” playing through my Zune HD onto the TV screen, I can finally let it go.

I enter each of these events hoping that everyone has a good time. I probably over think it and I’m sure I don’t allow myself to be given any credit for how these events go, but to see everyone network, have fun, enjoy the giveaway prizes and come away feeling better about themselves and the people that they meet is a testament to why I think #MSMVP should be happening in every store, every year.

This really only began my first night of MVP Summit, and this really begins the road towards NDA-infused events for the next few days, but seeing #MSMVP as the kickoff has been a wonderful experience that I’m glad it’s able to be shared and enjoyed by others.

I could go on and on thanking people (and they know who they are) but I’ll suffice it to say that everyone that I’ve been in contact with regarding this event has been wonderful in their own right and I’m indebted to them for believing in this and the possibilities/potential that it offers to MVPs and the program as a whole.

Here’s to having many more of these events in the future. Thank you all, again, for the support. You’ve made a guy feel proud and honored.

The build-up and excitement for MVP Summit 2011 begins

Around this time, next week, MVPs from across the globe will be running through a final luggage and packing check: boarding pass, hotel confirmations, summit schedules, music players (uh oh, I didn’t say Zune did I?), game consoles (oh, you’ll be surprised what MVPs will have in their rooms) and more. Then we’ll all put the TSA into a tizzy because we’re carrying so much tech that they’ll think we’re collectively taking over the skies.

However, we’ll all descend upon Seattle/Bellevue, WA for the 2011 MVP Summit. It’s probably one of the great highlights of the year for me. Think of it as a gigantic family reunion, except everyone plays the part of the drunk uncle. Yet, when it’s not about the partying and after-hours camaraderie, it’s about getting down to the nitty gritty — getting face to face (or in the face) of Microsoft product teams to hash out feedback, roadmaps and constructive criticism. As intense as these discussions can get (and I’ve seen some intense back and forth) everyone has the same goal in mind: the end-user. What we all want is for the community to enjoy using Microsoft products in a smooth, effective and easy way.

Now, while the goal is to make sure the general public has a quality experience with Microsoft products, the means to get there (read: this summit) goes into the NDA bin. What that means is that practically everything from Summit is under hush-hush. In exchange for this fountain of undercover information, MVPs give their personal feedback and feedback of the community.

If you do want to see what’s happening at NDA-Island, you could follow the #mvp11 hashtag on Twitter. I’m sure we can at least tell you what we’re having for lunch or how cold the weather is. =)

This event will be especially exciting for me because (haven’t you heard) MSMVP will be one of the “kickoff events” leading into MVP Summit. MSMVP, along with Geekgive, give early-arrival MVPs a chance to immediately have some fun, give back to the community, shake hands, break bread and down shots before the main event starts. I always saw the Bellevue event as the pinnacle point for MSMVP so I’m very excited to see the reception and people at this event. Nervous as hell, yes, but excited nonetheless.

Now keep this in mind, MVPs welcome your feedback about whatever Microsoft technology that you’re using. Please feel free to seek out MVPs and let them know what you would like brought up while at Summit. Remember, we’re doing this so that you can ultimately have a smooth, enjoyable experience.

So, ladies and gentlemen… in one week it all goes down. A few days in Seattle/Bellevue will lead to a year’s worth of information, schedules and product news. I’m sure the tech bloggers will be keeping a close ear on the Summit to hear of any tidbits that may leak out (intentionally or unintentionally).

Let’s make some EPIC happen!