I think each of us can come up with not just a few reasons to skip this year’s homeschool convention. In fact, some of you may already have your list in your head. Before succombing to the “why nots,” consider some of the “whys.”
Renew your vision
Maybe you don't want to go to convention because you are
burned out. What better way to get recharged than to renew 
vision? Just
being in the same building with hundreds other people who think the way you do
is uplifting.
Hearing once again the encouraging words of a familiar speaker will remind you why you are teaching at home in the first place. The words of a speaker you've not heard before just may be the boost you need.
Make connections with others in your boat
If you are attending a workshop on a specific topic, say special needs, the other parents in that room have similar concerns. These are the very people who are going to understand your situation as well as your heart. This is the place to make those connections.
The workshop speakers aren't the only authority on the subject. The person next to you or in back of you may have just the answer or word of encouragement you need. Your seat neighbor may be shy about approaching the speaker after the session, but you have the ssameexperiences to offer love and support as well.
Take some personal cards with your name and contact information so you can share with others and find someone to mentor you.
Encouraging others
One year I as I was wandering through the exhibit hall, a mom stopped me in the middle of the aisle. She told that me that since I was wearing a badge from the Leadership Conference I could answer her question. We stood there and talked for the entire next workshop session. We both went away encouraged.
You never know whom God is going to send your way. Be available to His work. It's possible that you can answer a curriculum question for a new mom while the exhibitor is busy. That just might be an appointment from God.
Go to a convention ready to give as well as receive.
Weekend get away
Two friends of mine consider the convention their much deserved get-away weekend. They save all year, book a suite, order room service, spend time in the spa, and, if available, get a massage. Oh yes, they do attend some workshop sessions but they don't spend much time in the exhibit all. They find it too hectic for their relaxation.
Whether it is with other moms or with your husband, just the weekend away and pampering yourself, can do more to encourage than a dozen workshop sessions. You don't have to buy your entire curriculum during that one weekend. Maybe sleeping in an extra hour and having one breakfast served to your room is just the luxury you need to be refreshed for the upcoming year.
I finished home schooling. I don't need the convention.
Maybe you don't think that you need a convention because you are nearing the end of your homeschool season. The convention needs you. Hundreds of volunteers are needed for a smooth running convention. Veterans who may not need to attend every workshop session or spend time in the exhibit hall are needed to fill one of the many volunteer slots. Not only does this serve your state organization and the convention, but also provides a valuable service to younger homeschool parents.
Not Just Any Convention
Don’t just attend just any convention; attend one sponosred by your state organization. State homeschool organizaitons plan their conventions based on the needs of homeschoolers in their area. These events are “local” rather than regional, you can often attend one day without incurring hotel expenses, and have lower travel expenses.
Your state organization will be around mid-school year when you need help. Your convention attendance helps support the work these groups do on your behalf twelve months out of the year.
With thrity-seven events in thrity-two states, provinces, and nations, you’re sure to find one clost by. Don’t miss the chance to be encouraged and be an encouager.
Mar 6, 2012 at 8:33 AM All of the reasons given here to attend the convention sponsored by your state organization are all very well-said! We are here 24/7/365, in the trenches with you - watching legal activity, providing support, offering services. Yes, we have even received phone calls in the middle of the night! (Boy, the callers were surprised to reach a live person, not an answering machine!) Most state organizations and their efforts/activities are run solely by volunteers and proceeds from their conventions help fund the expenses incurred the rest of the year! I look forward to this blog and all the helps it will provide homeschoolers everywhere. We have already mentioned it on our state's FB fanpage. Press on...and thanks!
Mar 7, 2012 at 7:42 AM Great Reasons for why attend a local homeschool conference/convention. In my early years of homeschooling, my husband did most of the shopping. Being in the convention hall was a chance for me to catch up with homeschooling friends I had met in other places, but rarely saw. It was a joy to see so many parents on the same journey and to be able to talk to them face to face.
Mar 10, 2012 at 2:34 PM My favorite reason to attend a convention: I don't feel so alone and weird. Even though I know friends at church and in the neighborhood that are homeschooling, when I see hundreds of homeschool families at the convention, I don't feel like I am so strange.