>Joel, It's been years since I've been to San Diego but I'm sure the Zoo and all of Balboa Park is still as beautiful as it's ever been. I'm flying in Saturday morning so I can do something... bike around Balboa Park or maybe a fishing trip depending on whether the fish are active. Maybe we can link up.
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>I've taken my wife to several "geek" events over the years (her words, not mine) and she definitely has to find things to do during the day. Spa sessions work well and it seems we have friends in many parts of the country, including some Internet friends, who are willing to meet in major metro areas. It does somewhat limit networking for me when Karen's there because she quickly gets bored when I start talking shop. But if you can find a place for the kids, it can be fun.

Yes, I expect to take a small hit in the "networking" department. But we don't get to travel that much, and since this trip is mostly company funded, we're taking advantage of the opportunity. I'll do my best to balance things out to get the best of both worlds, and Paula is very reasonable about these things.

If your better half makes it this time, let me know. Maybe they can support each other during the day and talk "wife shop", after which they will know a little too much about us. Hmmm... maybe not such a good idea <g>.