First Experience will be 2006...

[Lariss]

My husband and I discovered the existence of Burning Man through a friend.
Once I looked into it, I was GUNG HO aout going.
Fortunately and unfortunately, we are very new parents (2 month old baby) and we don't think we'll be ready to leave him behind by this August.

Next August, however, is a completely different subject.
We want to begin getting involved in the community now.
Any Ideas?

[montana wildhack]

Congratulations on your new baby, Lariss!

This will be my first year at Burning Man, and I have found that browsing and posting on the ePlaya has really helped me to feel like a part of the community. So kudos to you for getting involved right from the git-go! See you in 2006!

[Badger]

Next August, however, is a completely different subject.
We want to begin getting involved in the community now.
Any Ideas?

Seems to me that starting early is the best way to begin. I figure your above post is a good first step. You may also want to check out any regional lists for your particualr area/region.