Agreed completely. we used to have picnics and get-togethers -- we need to do it again. Even if not everybody can get to every party (i.e. a particular date is not convenient for *everybody*), we need to do them.

I was thinking about poor Ariel a lot last night. I wasn't much older than she is when I lost my first close friend, so I know a bit of how she's feeling. My heart really goes out to her. I know she doesn't really know who I am (esp, judging from the "Who are you?" looks I get whenever I say hi to her :-), but please tell her again how sorry I am for her loss.

As for the next big get-together, we're sorry you and Peter won't be able to make it, but I totally understand that conflict! :-D (Personally, I'm highly amused that I picked the same day the others did to get married!)