Doesn't shock me as much because half-brother Adam is the Goofus to Emmett's Gallant in my head and Goofus turned thirty in May--I guess I had sort of built up that they were born at, like, the exact same time, which is more like scientific research than real life, I guess. Didn't realize we shared a sign, though, me and your kids. Childhood BFF showed up in my inbox with wishes, which is cool and all that, but I had a rough few days and didn't get back to her. (Plus, she is kind of a lot in a Smartest Kid in Summer Enrichment kind of way that doesn't feel as cool now that we're, you know, Crips of A Certain Age) I want credit in the Book of Life because I didn't write back "Bitch, we talk maybe three times a year these days. Get over yourself!"because she *tracked me down* and did, like, the "so worried!1" thing(I've pulled that a lot myself, never realized how schticky it can feel--apologies.) If I had laughed at her like that, she would have literally sicced her mommy on me. our community is *so much fun*. it's too bad she's in the Bay Area and I'm not, but I have a paid off coffin, uh, I mean *condo*(One day I MUST stop making that mistake. Right?)

Much love to the kids, Hec; you have every reason to be so proud of both of them.

And also much love to Sheryl and Nilly. I am very grateful for both of you; no atonement needed here, just keep posting and letting us care for you.

And to the rest of you, thanks for letting me hang out with you here. It's been a heck of a year, and I couldn't have gotten through it without you. Let's keep the Buffista love circulating, ok?

The only thing I would say to Sheryl and Nilly is that I don't talk to them as much as I would want, but that can't always be helped all the time, I know. So I'm not offended about it, but if I could change it I would, Karl, bringing so much love as always. thanks for that.