Aftermath of an advance birthday celebration (for me). We had a tame drinking party in a hotel downtown last night, and a handful of my closest friends dropped by. I didn't drink much but I got high, talked way too much, fell asleep, and everyone was trying to wake me to remove my contact lenses first. I remember that those who could make it came, no matter how far away they were, how late or how little time they had to spare. Thank you. And to the madcap travelmates who made this possible, vielen Dank. I really appreciate you all more than I let on. :)