We started our long awaited vacation today- we got up early with the kids and set out on a series of long (or at least with kids it was long) flights. No complaints though because it was time with the family and we were heading somewhere warm. I thought about Mike as we checked in to our flight as there was this loud (or louder) but super nice and friendly gentleman who was yacking it up with everyone. I thought about Mike because he was so unassuming, friendly guy one would ever meet. He broke down barriers within minutes and was just genuine. I actually think that he would have made a great politician (his connection to people vs. the other policial stuff). I also thought about Mike in a completely other sense today. I am going to be seeing an old friend this week who is an artist and a mutual friend. Many years ago I needed a sign crafted and painted for the QP Pub so I asked this mutual friend to do it. What I should have done is ask Mike as he was quite the artist himself as everyone knows. He called me on it and asked why I did not ask him. There was no good answer.  I just did not think of it. I always remembered that - as a time I let my friend down. It was a good lesson that you should look close to home first..... Miss ya Mike