I had a lovely time with Shrift and Aurelia! But why wouldn't I, since they are such cool peeps. Nothing like good food and good company.

So, Buffistas. Remember the vacation around June/July thing? How about we'll make it next month?

I'll explain: two major factors changed. 1) one dead grandmother left me quite a lot of money, which can pay for the fair share of any flying tickets I could possibly want, and 2) a big lib-tech company wants me to come and start work for it ASAP for a kickass job position in Jerusalem. I signed with them yesterday and gave my notice at current work in the beginning of the month, so I should be free for shenanigans in the beginning of May.

I can postpone the new job starting date for last week of May. This, theoretically, can give me enough time to come and see you lovely people. The only question is if you'll be available to see me too, since it's the whole point of my trip. I can send the link to the spreadsheet to update it accordingly. The dates I have in mind are flying from Israel on May 4th or 6th, and coming back here around May 21st (so I can start on Sunday, May 25th, jet leg be damned). It's just up to you and your yes or nos now.

The only question is if you'll be available to see me too, since it's the whole point of my trip.

That would be a HELL YES!

My May is a little busier, but I would still love to see you! I will update the spreadsheet.

That would be a HELL YES!

And I'm getting teary from the very first reply. New record for Buffistas!

Totes available!!

I must've skimmed over the visit from Shir, but if you are in Bay Area, I'd love to meet up with you and the local gang.

If you want a day or night to chill out at a Stinson Beach cottage, let me know, and I can see if my friends' cottage is free. It's a great place for a day time pot luck, too.

I need a house and cat sitter for roughly the last two weeks of June. My goal is someone who is happy to be in a nice house in San Rafael, Marin County, for free. If I find such a person, I may expand my own trip in both directions (leave earlier, come back later). At a minimum, I need June 18 or 19 to July 1 or 2. Know anyone? Profile address.

The cats have a morning and evening curfew, and neighbor/friends are very helpful with evening curfew if/when housesitter is away all day.

San Rafael is about 15 miles north across the Golden Gate from SF. Sonoma and Napa are 45-60 minutes away. Berkeley about 15 miles away. Transit center is a 10-15 minute walk. Bike available.

Java cat, she doesn't post here much anymore, but I bet Spidra Webster (Megan Lynch) might be interested. She loves the bay area and can't afford to get up here very often. If you're not connected with her let me know.

You’re welcome in May, Shir, but I’ll be working Mon-Fri and will have a lot less time to play tour guide. I won’t be able to drive up to SF with you, alas.