[greglockwood]

I have to admit that it is actually refreshing and enjoyable to see the YC application process come and go without being an applicant this time. I applied for the W'11 batch and was all I could think about was the application, the possibility of an interview, and obviously the ultimate possibility of getting into YC.

I couldn't look at others' demos and ideas without viewing them as the competition. I was judging the other projects instead of actually being interested in them. Since I'm not applying this round (not because I've become disillusioned with YC or don't think it would be a good opportunity, I've just determined that I'm at the point in my life where I need to focus on taking care of more immediate needs than swinging for the fences), I'm actually enjoying seeing what everyone is bringing to the table. It makes me smile to see everyone's enthusiasm to get into YC. Good luck to everyone out there, and if you have something that you truly believe in, make it happen, YC or not.