Stan, Stan, Stan...first rule of negotiation. The party who presents numbers first always has the advantage.

 

We did not go. Taz is down with a cold so we decided to skip it. The event itself has never been my favorite but I enjoyed everyone getting together and riding down there. Since that was not happening we skipped it. I did get my Chief dropped off for service and we got Nancy's heated grips ordered so we had a productive day instead.

 

You're absolutely correct Mick, and if this were a long-term or a substantial issue, I would play it different.
I want to opportunity to tell them how ridiculous their first go is, and then suggest here's what it will take if they want to get serious.
It's passive-aggressive, and my don't-really-give-a-dang attitude on this issue is showing.

 

Evening, fellas.

 

Thanks for the check-in Greg. We're a bit worried about you as a bachelor.

 

Under 20 minutes to kick off.

 

Thanks for the concern. Warranted since the time difference is so great that I don't have to worry about her interrupting anything to check in! No telling what kind of trouble I can get into.

 

Al would tell you ...."Don't do stupid ****!" (With the following laughing guy at the end).

 

Don't you worry! The alcohol may be gone but the ism is still there!

 

I didn't mean to imply we wouldn't send bail money!