Happy birthday, @Arieanna

One of the friends I have grown close thanks to blogging is my good friend Arieanna Schweber. You may also know that this year, we co-authored an e-book on building robust and resilient online communities (see “Communities that Rock: Creating Kick-Ass Online Communities” – you can buy our e-book through that link). Arieanna and I also had a chance to speak at Northern Voice (we wrote the e-book as a way to engage ourselves in a reflective process that led to our talk). We are now working on the extended (print version) of our book.

I’ve learned so much from you, Arieanna – as a blogger, as a friend, and as a human being. You’ve reminded me frequently how important it is to have balance in your life, and to not overwork myself (as you know, when I visit your family is the only time I really force myself to shut down and just relax). You’ve taught me the value of loyalty and friendship and I am honored and grateful that whenever I have needed you you have been there for me. I have enormous respect for you and I cherish our friendship very, very much.

You are someone I trust and love and I am thrilled that your family (Ianiv, Aiden, you and your own extended family) have welcomed me part of your own. As you know, I see Aiden as my own nephew and I will have the same love for the new baby that is coming.

Have a wonderful birthday and I look forward to celebrating soon!