And by old-timers, I mean "anyone from 2005-2006 or so." I was fairly active around DV back then, but grad school, relationship/marriage, career, and a number of cross-country moves intervened in the interim.

After focusing for 5 or 6 years on what I thought I was "supposed to do" with my life and making myself thoroughly miserable in the process, I had a bit of an epiphany -- a mental and emotional slap in the face, really -- and realized that that since misery and happiness are choices, I was going to choose to focus on the things that have always brought me a sense of joy and peace and mystery. So, long story short, I came back to DV.

The personal, get-to-know-you info: I've had vivid dreams all my life, with LDs interspersed occasionally (more frequently when I'm focused on having them, which is no surprise to anyone here). I've been fascinated by dreams, the insight they offer into the mind, and the hints they offer about the underlying nature of the waking world since I was a child, and I'm honestly shocked and horrified about how far I've let myself slip away from nurturing that interest and that outlet for the past several years. I'm eager to re-focus and re-immerse.

I'm a scientist by education (degrees in physics and atmospheric science) and an educator and communicator by profession. I love adventure of almost any sort, especially travel and what usually qualifies as "extreme sports". If I can manage to do in real life what most people content themselves only to do in their dreams, I'm happy.

I love discussing science, philosophy, dreams, the underlying "nature of reality", and just about anything else that isn't pop culture or professional sports.

To any old friends out there: Hello -- I'd love to get back in touch, and I'm sorry for the disappearing act.

To any new friends: Hi, my name is Peregrine...