Today is April Fool's Day—the day when many of us celebrate just how gullible we really are. Celebrants enjoy the day by spoofing co-workers and engaging in fun hoaxes and practical jokes.

Over the years, I've personally been the target of many an April Fool's prank. Considering today's date, I'm not sure what to make of the following email that I received this morning. Am I the target of yet another joke?

Congratulations! We are pleased to present you with the 2008 Microsoft® MVP Award! The MVP Award is our way to say thank you for promoting the spirit of community and improving people’s lives and the industry’s success every day. We appreciate your extraordinary efforts in Visual C# technical communities during the past year.

I suppose it's possible that Microsoft has a thoroughly sick sense of humor, and this is just an elaborate hoax. On the other hand, it could be that Microsoft has absolutely no sense of humor and doesn't realize that today isn't the most optimal day to be sending out congratulatory emails.

I feel that I have to give this email two responses:

1. If this is real, I am completely humbled to be a recipient of the MVP Award this year. Blogging, speaking and educating are activities that I find very rewarding, and it's flattering to be recognized for them.
2. If this is just an elaborate joke, I'm thoroughly disgusted and saddened by the juvenile attempt at humor. People have feelings, ya' know!

How hard is it to send these emails on March 31st or April 2nd? That would clear up a lot of confusion.

P.S. I know it's real. Thanks Microsoft! I am truly honored. No joke.