Leading up to the week of the iPhone's release, I knew I would get one, but I planned on picking it up sometime after the launch in order to avoid the lines. Then in the days leading up to the release (June 29th, or iPhone Day) Apple wisely dribbled out a series of press releases to generate additional hype, which I and a number of people I know fell victim to. The thought of not having one in my hands on Saturday became very unappealing.
My father was gracious enough to offer to hold a place in line for me early Friday morning until I could relieve him. As a result I was first in line at the Issaquah AT&T store. I spent most of the day sitting in a lawn chair working. I was able to a Wi-Fi signal from the nearby Starbucks and brought two laptops since I had no means of charging either once the batteries gave out.
The other squatters were very friendly as well as the store employees who would come talk to us periodically. The security detail seemed unnecessary; what could happen in Issaquah? There were no problems leaving the line to go to the bathroom or get some snacks. It began to rain on us that afternoon, but no one was going anywhere.
Becky brought the kids over for lunch, and then returned just before the doors opened. She had spent the past six months rolling her eyes whenever I mentioned the iPhone, but was very supportive when it came time for me to actually pick one up, perhaps because she figured I'd finally shut up about it.
When 6:00 rolled around, everyone in line clapped as I went inside, shaking the employees' hands and having my picture taken. For about five minutes my place in line made me a minor celebrity (thanks Dad!).
So far the device seems to be worthy of the anticipation, but I'll write more after I've used it for a while.
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