The little things

I've noticed that it takes less and less to excite me these days. I've been trying to get into casual touch with a bunch of friends, acquaintances and former colleagues recently - and find myself at a loss to describe the last 20 years of my life without sounding trite. Particularly because the most exciting thing happening this week is a haircut. And I'm really excited about the haircut. How do you tell an old friend this and NOT sound as exciting as krill?

"Hi! I know we've been out of touch for the last three years, and I've missed talking. How are you? What is exciting in your life lately? Mine? Not much going on that I can think of. I'm getting my haircut on Friday, and I'm really looking forward to being able to see through my bangs again. Work is busy and I am happy."

UGH! How is someone supposed to respond to this drivel?

I'm reminded of the adage ascribed to Mark Twain, "If I had more time I'd write less." As I typed the silliness above, I found myself realizing that if I made time to reflect on all of the milestones I've passed, I'd probably have more to say in fewer words. Consider this change:

"Hi! Its been a long time since we've talked, and I've missed you. Some interesting milestones have passed recently - including my defining a career ladder for myself, making a commitment to becoming a cyclist, and beginning plans to buy a home. I've also realized that adulthood is a journey and this is where I am right now. Where are you in your journey?"

Same number of words in each (64). Both are true assessments of my life right now. Which would you respond to?

How do you respond when someone sends you a "what's up in your life" email or facebook.com invitation or leaves an out-of-the blue voice mail?