We’re on the ground at the Las Vegas Money Show, enjoying unusually mild, La Jolla-like weather in America’s Playground.

Several canadian trusts--including Penn West Energy Trust, Paramount Energy Trust and Enerplus Resources--are exhibiting in the convention hall, and we’ll be tracking down representatives during our stay; we’ll pass along any insights we’re able to glean.

What’s remarkable thus far is the sheer number of self-directed investors making the rounds. Registration was up more than 30 percent for the show, which seems counterintuitive given the prevailing noise about the market and the economy.

At its most basic level, though, Investing is an optimist’s endeavor: It’s inherently forward-looking. You must have some faith that things will improve if you’re going to lay out hard-earned cash for companies.

Short-term market gyrations and temporary economic setbacks aside, we do this to make money over time. The dips and depressions can be tough, but you’ve got to stay in the game.