"Tuesday's Tribute"

Yet Another Jay and Deb Production.

This week's Tuesday's Tribute is all about a man who I knew for a very brief yet crazy, action packed, fun filled, adventurous 9 months to a year. I remember my first encounter like it was yesterday. He was sitting by a volleyball court speaking with a gal that I knew and we were introduced. He had a very friendly, professional demeanor, yet a razor sharp whit to his overtly sarcastic manner. I liked this guy and his style. (No, now don't get all crazy with your thoughts, gutter grey matter geeks.)

Over time I learned more and less about him, kind of like the study of DNA. He was a very busy body, hard working, goals driven sales rep for Revlon. He had an insatiable enthusiasm about him to enjoy life and his weekends to the fullest. Who could blame him? We were young and who knew how much time we had rented on this here rotating multi-colored gumball? Curiously, he kept a life sized floor stand of Cindy Crawford, used for "promotional purposes", in the living room of his apartment. I guess back then that could have been considered a fine piece of furniture or artwork, take your pick.

We had some great laughs and wild adventures together during that year. One warm summer night I finally broke the "DNA" code. He talked me off the ledge, if you will, over a very painful life event I was dealing with, and that evening reliving for what I perceived for a second time. That is when I knew that JAY was truly my friend. I cannot speak for him, but from that day on I had a new and stronger respect for him. I needed a real friend that evening. A rational, understanding, bring me back to earth friend. I raise a toast to you Jay, for because of your selflessness that night and being able to put your drink down, walk away from the crowd and be a friend. Colleen and I celebrate 13 years of beautiful marriage this year.

Fast forward 16 years, and I found Jay or he found me on Facebook. What a small world. What a nice and unexpected surprise. What a great tool for reconnecting with family, friends and most importantly people who have positively affected your life. Jay is the one responsible for my start up in this blogosphere. (I'm not sure that is a word, but it is now my neologism.)

Nonetheless, my point is, that those who have the honor of knowing Jay on a personal level as friend, family member or Blogatopian, you have found a rare pearl in the sea of clams. If you are reading this and have not been over to Halftime Lessons, you are missing out on some very funny, provocative and heartfelt rants. He we will at times make you laugh your ass off, bring a tear to your eye and actually make you think. What a concept, right? Thinking? To me he is the "House" of Blogland. He and Hugh Laurie share a striking resemblance. Seriously, he and "Halftime Lessons" have built somewhat of a cult following. In a very good way of course. So, go... go and enjoy the breath of his work, which continues tirelessly. Be inspired. Challenge to better yourself through his spirit.

Jay, I thank you for your continued friendship. Kat is one lucky woman. Our family is lucky to have you as a friend.

Here's looking up yur skirt mate!

Can you find the Crazy Canuck Stud?


P.S: Remember to send well wishes next Wednesday for his 14,355 day of life.