i really hate to have to say this, but...

[newsguy]

... i'm not going to be able to make it to the offline. my wife found out on friday that the 10-day out-of-town training session she has to go to (the life of a new doctor) is aug. 3 through 13. she tried to see yesterday if there was any way she could do this at another time. she can't. and because our babies include a 15-year-old dog with special medical needs, someone needs to be home with her. flying her cross-country on trips no longer is an option. and we do not use pet-sitters or kennels.

so, now i don't get to meet you all, drink some great wines together and celebrate my birthday next saturday. instead, i'll be home alone (well, as "alone" as you can be in an apartment with a dog and three cats).

to say i'm disappointed is a serious understatement. i'm sorry to let you down, but you're just going to have to carry on without me.

i am, however, rescheduling my "working" wine trip for a few weeks later. if any of you will be in NoCal wine country aug. 19-26, or in L.A. aug. 27-31, please let me know. i'd love to see you.

[This message has been edited by newsguy (edited 07-26-2005).]