Well, I must admit, this wasn't that "lost." Or "long," really. (Just consider myself a marketing specialist.)

A friend I went to graduate school with at Berkeley sent an email from Seattle a month ago letting a few of us bay area residents know that he'd be in town for a few days. His schedule conflicted with my upcoming wedding, but I wanted to let him know just that. (You know, to not be a complete dick, like those people who don't respond to emails, even ones that state, "Hey, just let me know." Yes, you know the people I'm talking about.)

Re: visit to Bay

Hey man...
It is good to hear that you are still alive. It is hard to assume these days with all of the wmd being pointed our way by ruthless democracy-hating terrorists. They hate democracy; I hate them. Somehow, it's fitting.
Emilia and I are getting married on Sept. 16 in Philadelphia so I will not be around, unfortunately, for your visit.
Have fun with the lecture and the geobears, ask Goodman why he didn't puff that jay in Sierra, and good luck at work.
Stay in touch.
-Jeff

It is probably worth mentioning his (delayed) reply... "Congrats on finally tying the knot. You will probably find that not all (but most) conservative institutions are flawed. Flaws in marriage are generally attributed to the participants."

Hmm... I guess the rumor that he got divorced since school has been confirmed. And it looks like my friend here won't be giving a toast at our wedding reception.

One last thing, he did reassure me: "I'll talk to Goodman about that jay."