General impressions: Tech Ed Day 1

Well, Day 1 is in the can and I've got some general impressions:

• The convention center is more spacious than Boston, so it seems like everyone has a bit more room.  On the downside, that could mean more walking...
• It seems like it is easier to get to the breakout sessions this year than last.  I'm not sure if this is really true, but it seems like it is the case.
• The bag is a big hit, especially after last year's fiasco bag!
• The disappointment this year is the pen they stuck in the pen holder on each badge.  It is both a highlighter and a pen, but it is designed in such a way that you can't put the cap anywhere when using it as a pen.  People are working the vendor booths hard to find replacement pens!
• They had a live band at lunch this year.  It was actually kind of nice, but if you happen to sit near the band while eating you can kiss any lunchtime conversations goodbye...

That's it so far.  I'll be back with more from Tech Ed 2007 soon...