So, as is my compulsive pattern, I arrived early for a holiday party last week and was one of the very first on the scene.

The problem with that was  no one I knew was there. Thus, there was no one to commune with (and hide behind). I know this is a business development, socializing, connecting "no no", but problem is, I'm shy. Painfully shy in new situations.

In friendly, home field, familiar crowds I can float around and riff and connect with my guys and gals, but not as the new solo guy in a strange room.

Eventually, fellow Gothamite (and Syracuse alum) Riva Schwartz arrived to save me and other Gothamites followed, but I needed a drink to regain my balance.

Maybe I'll have to be more like Corey and float in on Corey time when the room is full, lubricated and boistrous.