Last October, I met Pat from OnRamp at InnoTech.  We had a great chat about the importance of proactive data backup and recovery policies.  I shared my story about the cat who jumped on the keyboard when I'd been writing for six hours, only to crash the computer (this was pre-Windows). We talked about the cost and consequence of not storing data offsite.  Having worked in managed services, I've seen companies suffer the catastrophic loss of data, and the success of having a proactive policy.

Pat had invited me to to go one the OnRamp happy hours they hold every quarter or so, but this was the first one I could make.  I'm going to make sure to attend others, it was fun! Very soft sell approach for a company sponsored networking even, and a fantastic networking resource for those related to tech events.  Robert Half International co-hosted it as well.  The turnout was fantastic, and some friends were there as well.  I got to catch up with Pat, which was nice; I was actually surprised she remembered me, it'd been so long.  I have to say, I was impressed with the general chat just to chat atmosphere.  That's great networking to me, especially when there's an underlying goal to an event.  It makes OnRamp stand out in my mind.  Not just because OnRamp's Debra complimented me on my 1154 Lill Studio bag.  Not many Austinites will recognize one of those!

They're very smart about this networking event.  They hold it at a popular spot, the Iron Cactus (North), and include two free drink tickets, and have a nice buffet selection. This isn't cheap beer and bad pizza networking. Yes, there were nacho fixings, but have you ever had Iron Cactus guacamole?  That's some good stuff.  And a really nice looking fruit selection, too. I wasn't impressed with the food at the seminar, so I was a bit hungry by the time I got to the Iron Cactus. And two margaritas require food (why I didn't order mojitos, my usual, I don't know). 

Anyway, I ran into old friends, some folks who'd heard me give the blog talk, and generally chatted for a couple hours before heading home.  I do need to do that more.  I was talking fast enough to break the sound barrier, since I've been keeping my head down and getting work done for work, the PMI Job Fair, and my personal projects. 

it made me realize I like networking for the fun of it, especially when I can help other people (and my causes).  Someone actually called me a networking queen! Yikes!