I've only been working at Merrill for about three weeks now.  Haven't received too many projects yet since I'm just starting to receive network access / tools.  One of the managers pulls me aside before lunch and tells me to be back by 12:45 because we're going to have a network meeting with the other managers.  Hmm.. that's random... must be something big going on.  I head over to their offices with a pad and pen and he cuts me off and tells me that one of the managers isn't ready yet and he'd come and grab me when they're ready.  After about 5 minutes, he grabs me from my office and we head to the back offices for the meeting.  I walk into the room to find it full of people shouting at me.  Happy Birthday!!!    In the middle of the back table was a huge ice cream cake.  I dropped my pad and pen, and pretended to head toward my office.  I was set up, there was no meeting! 

My friends picked me up after work.  As we were driving through downtown, we noticed one of the buildings with a huge glass window front and a big banner hanging inside: HOMELAND SECURITY.  But the place was closed... empty!!!  So, who's protecting us?! 

Thanks to everyone that made it out last night to celebrate my birthday.  Haven't really gone out in a while.  Whirlyball, bowling, beer, and friends.  What more could I ask for?  ...more sleep... and some excedrin.