So, Keith calls me to dinner on Thursday with Ben and Dennis. I haven't cracked up like that in a while. With my other friends, it seems that it is serious all the time (or maybe they don't want to open up and be funny and weird with me) and if I say anything sarcastic, they take it the wrong way (in fact, some quip back with nasty things to say or just stare at me funny.) I'm glad that these guys share a rapport that is easy going and fun. I do wonder what would happen if these guys ran out of jokes. It is interesting though. I actually don't realize I get info or news about them until I really look at the conversation. The news seems to come in and out of the actual jokes...kinda hidden, but there. Always lively, they are. AND, it is interesting to have dinner with a lawyer, a doctor, and a scientist. I seem to hang out all day with teachers and when I visit the bay, there are more teachers or engineers. Maybe it is because we have too much in common that we never really joke. Teachers seem to always end up talking shop. I guess that is why we are all so passionate about our jobs. Unfortunately, it eats away at our lives. Hopefully, we can find a balance before burn out!