Ready for Neil

Shortly after I began blogging, I found Neil online. His blog, Citizen of the Month, is sometimes funny, sometimes serious, and sometimes poignant, but it is always original, creative, and disarming in its honesty. Neil can make you laugh, make you cringe, or make you think. He completely underestimates his writing talent and his range and is a master of self-deprecating humor. He writes serious and silly fiction and poetry, slice of life essays, hilarious and/or provocative social commentary, and an occasional piece that is heart rending in its openness and vulnerability.

I've been part of his blog community for more than four years now and his friend since I-don't-know-when. This weekend, we're finally getting to meet. As I write this, Neil is on a train coming south from New York City, and I'm in pajamas thinking I need to quit doing laundry and get dressed instead.

The guest room is ready...

There are clean, fluffy towels and a fresh cake of soap...

And there are holiday decorations, because nothing says "Welcome my Jewish friend!" like a Christmas tree.

Neil is spending the weekend at Chez V and there are sure to be lots of adventures and laughter. It's supposed to snow tomorrow, and we're going to my small town's Christmas parade. I may drag Neil across the campus of my university, and I'll definitely take him to my favorite spots downtown.

You can follow us on Twitter: @neilochka  and  @VGrrrl 

(Postscript: Neil's very humorous account of his stay at my house is detailed here: http://www.citizenofthemonth.com/2009/12/12/the-christmas-parade/ )

Comments

[Di]

I don't twitter :( but I will love hearing how it all goes. I just know I don't have to write have fun, because you guys so will!
xx

[V-Grrrl]

No worries, luv, because you know we'll be on Facebook too.

This is a warm up for when you come over and do your grand tour of America. Can't wait!

XO

[RD]

I love it when great bloggers crossover into each other's world! I'll say it, Di: HAVE FUN! Can't wait to read about it. :-)

[Jane]

Jealous. I am so so so very jealous. I am wishing you both a grand time, but did I mention that I'm jealous?

[V-Grrrl]

Jane,

I'm sure 2010 will bring you to my door, and we'll go out cruising in your GM vehicle du jour.

[Kelby]

Beautiful! I'm so glad you have a fun weekend with a good friend planned. I know you've been looking forward to it for days now. I'll be sure to follow you on Twitter tomorrow!

[Jack]

A good sock monkey is worth a lot. You should take guy along and include him in all of the pictures.

[Chris]

Wonderful! I think it's nice when bloggers live close enough that they can meet in person if they desire, outside of a conference. I hope Neil has a peaceful, fun, refortifying time with you, and I hope that you simply enjoy your friend, Neil. :-)

[ingrid]

awesome. have a wonderful time! how very exciting that you get to meet!

[Juli Ryan]

So jealous! Oh, to have been a fly on the wall.