I got an invitation to a birthday party today from someone who lives in the valley/bay area. I've known this person for a few years - we're not close, but certainly not adversaries either. This person is definitely a frienda, a colleague, an associate - that kind of a relationship. The kind of relationship where you make sure that you break bread together if you are ever in the same town at the same time because you know the conversation is going to fun, smart and definitely challenging. Exactly the kind of conversation I love with lunch.

I was pleased to get the invite, but I had to turn it down. The whole distance between here and there thing would have made it near impossible. Actually, I'm kind of bummed I won't be able to make it.

And impressed a too. A lot of times, valley events are valley events - i.e. if you aren't in the valley, you don't know about it until afterwards, never mind get an invitation ahead of time. It was nice to get an invite *beforehand*. I really wish I could be there. It'll be a great time - fun, smart and definitely challenging.

Exactly the kind of conversation I love with birthday cake.