Less than one week separates us from one of our favorite things: announcing scores and scores of more SXSW Interactive programming confirmations. On Tuesday, Dec. 1, we'll do just that.

Roughly one-third of our 2010 panel sessions, solo presentations, Core Conversations, readings, and more has already been publicized. We expect to end up with more than 400 options for March 12-16, and we're (still) furiously working the phones and touch screens, engaging in spirited debate, poring over the possibilities, and consulting the SXSW Interactive Advisory Board to lock in the rest and release that information to you, the registrants and potential participants.

You can't wait much longer; we can't, either. While the planning and prep work will continue here at the headquarters throughout the winter and spring, we think it's time for another update and a bit of a breather to survey how things are coming together. Here's a glimpse inside the process.

One of the many things we'll give thanks for this holiday is your patience and input. As always, questions and concerns are welcome.

Photo by Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.