I've been thinking about that lately myself as well.

This is an awareness of your own mortality ;) How old are your now? Close to 50?

I think part of it was back then programmers in general were such a rare breed that by definition there was a certain level of reverence. Nowadays programmers are a commodity and it's a heck of a lot harder to get your name out there much less build a solid reputation.

I am so sorry that I won't be at SwFox this year to see you again. It has been way too long. Andy and I both remember the time that we spent with you in Frankfurt very fondly. Any chance you can take a little detour to Arkansas on your way to Arizona this year? We'll show you god's country. You can't swing a cat without hitting either a church or a WalMart :)