Arriving in San Diego a day before PowerPoint Live begins sets the stage for an exciting week ahead. It’s 4:30 p.m., with about an hour and a half left before heading down to the hotel bar for the informal opening. The temptation to rest “just for 15 minutes” after the journey is strong—but when the clock strikes past six and eyes turn red from jet lag, it becomes clear how easily time can slip away.
Within ten minutes, the redness fades and clarity returns. The hotel bar hums with voices and familiar faces, each met with smiles, hugs, and scattered conversation. Amid the lively scene, a call from home interrupts the moment, prompting a quiet retreat from the crowd. Soon after, exhaustion takes over—and sleep arrives once more, back in the room.

