that is so hard to deal with. I normally make comments such as "gee, I am busy right now, visiting, and catching up, if you REALLY want to know, let me have your email address, and we can catch up through email, or phone calls, or letters, or whatever method you pick at that moment." you will find that most folks dont really want to know, but just want to be nosey for that minute. A few will surprise you and truly be interested in how you are.

Till then, I am the master at the put off. Gee! thats awesome, but I am headed for that yummy cheese dip! can we catch up later?"

When most folks say "its good to see you." I say "its good to be seen!" or a "im good, day by day, hanging in there or small comments like that." most folks just dont know what to say.