I belong to two other on-line groups that have real life get-togethers, and I know that my kids hook up with their WOW friends all around the country. The internet is certainly changing the way we make friends and view the world. Hurray for that. ^

I haven't really organized a DO in a while because we are just way too busy traveling, working, dancing, and enjoying being old working stiffs. Maybe when we retire we will get back into the DO arranging game once again.

I do believe very strongly, however, that any publicly posted DO must be open to anyone who wants to come, and that to exclude people you don't like (or for any other reason) is totally tacky and anti-community. If there is someone at a DO that you don't like, go sit somewhere else. There is never enough time at DOs to talk to the people you really like, let alone worry about those who don't make your "A" list, so include them all. Does that make me a purist? If so, then I am a purist.

Having said that, I also believe it is perfectly alright, and even wonderful to, arrange for private meetings with FlyerTalkers with whom you have become friends or share special interests. Sometimes when you are on the road you just don't have the time, energy, or inclination to put together a real DO, but still want to enjoy the company of one or two FlyerTalkers for lunch, dinner or drinks.

Enjoy life! It's all good.