Alli, you were SUCH a pioneer! Sixteen years ago, I was using my Mac classic like a word processor, and didn't know it could do much else. In 1995 I joined my first "listserve," which was started by some friends in St. Louis. We discussed all kinds of topics, and I remember being very nervous every time I was about to post something. I never would have imagined having a Twitter and blog community like this.

Lesley, the blind date comparison is a good one. I love that you were worrying about what to wear. That sounds so much like me. The many things we don't have to worry about on Twitter, right? 

karendaisy17, I can honestly say getting the chance to meet you was the best thing about my recent NY trip. As my online self and connections become a more prominent part of my life, I've been longing to find ways to bridge that world with my real-life worlds/self/community. This was perfect. We've been sharing our lives for months, and we were able to confirm that we like one another every bit as much—if not more—in person. (I might just always have to call you Daisy, though.)

Trina, "linking the lines between online groups and ‘real friendship’" is a good way to put it. One of the things I especially love about getting to know and meet Daisy is that our mutual friend, Carmen, is a link between us. Twitter allowed the three of us to be linked in a full circle (along with my brother and others), rather than just in disparate degrees of separation. 

Carmen, you are indeed the great introducer! You made me feel welcome, like the perfect party host, when I first joined Twitter. Then you introduced me to some great people. And yes: the results are wonderful! 

Daisy, I think you should do what you can to make it happen! It's a lot of fun. I'm tempted to create a map plotting the people I feel connected to on my blog and Twitter, and then do some road trips! (Where do you live, again? :)

karendaisy17, too too funny. Almost spit out my coffee. (How would a Twitter condom work, I wonder?)