Well, ladies and gents, it looks like I'm a no-show for the conference this year.

I finally start my career on Monday, September 14. I think asking for the 17th and 18th off would be unwise, but that's just a hunch. \:\)

Before I found out my start date, ahvatsa and I were going to make the conference a family event and bring our wives. Ahvatsa's birthday and my wife's birthday are both September 17, so it would have been a fun trip for those reasons as well. I must say that I have a fantastic wife--before I had to cancel, she graciously agreed to spend her birthday shopping or hanging around a resort while I'm off learning about ponds.

I'll miss seeing all my new and old PB friends, but I want to see plenty of pictures and stories. Ahvatsa and my wonderful stepmother will be there. Without embarassing him too much, somebody make his birthday special for me. \:\)

I thoroughly enjoyed the first two conferences and I'll be there for the fourth one!

"Only after sorrow's hand has bowed your head will life become truly real to you; then you will acquire the noble spirituality which intensifies the reality of life. I go to an all-powerful God. Beyond that I have no knowledge--no fear--only faith."