Now hear this:

I am making my intentions known.

Next year, I will be turning 40. On January 7, to be precise.

I am not looking forward to this. Yes, yes, I know I'm silly to fret over such things, just a number, yada yada, but it's a pretty deep-seated Thing that I have to learn to roll with. That said, I have already made a decision that I want to start working out now:

I want a rockin' party, yo.

I'm envisioning seriously pulling out the stops. This will be the Threefold Party of Adam's Fortiness, with three separate but equal parts:

1) A big dinner on the birthdate in question or its nearest technological equivalent in upstate New York, with board gaming or music making or whatever to follow.

2) A similar hoopty held at someone's house in the Boston vicinity not too long after, only with more of a hanging-out vibe with activities TBD.

3) If at all possible, a room party at Arisia.

This plan, I believe, will cover all contingencies, and help usher in the number-rhyming-with-Schmorty years with alacrity and aplomb. I hope each and every one of you will come to one, if not two or even all three. You're all very much invited. Mark calendars!

Thank you. You may carry on.