As we gear up for ESC SV in a few weeks, I decided to watch the Apollo 13 movie. You're probably aware that Ken Mattingly, one of the Apollo 13 heroes, is our keynote speaker. I'd seen the movie before, but it was many years ago.

I have to tell you, having a personal connection to one of the key characters gave me a different perspective on the movie. I've spoken to Ken a few times on the phone, and I've found him to be an amazing individual. I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to meeting him in person.

Whether you're coming to ESC or not, rent the movie, and think about what those astronauts must have been thinking.

Sheesh, I know the feeling when I leave for a week-long business trip. But I'm generally only going across the country, not to another planet.

Hope to see you in San Jose (with Admiral Mattingly). Here's the link to register: www.embedded.com/esc/sv