We did not want to go through the trial of commuting into NYC again today, so we took it nice and easy. We opted for a leisurely lunch at the food court at the mall, the kids did their schoolwork and I had a little playtime on the computer. I haven't said much about Socrates in my blog, but he is having a great time "running with the pack". He's a good dog, except when he barks at people walking past our hotel window. Since I walk him frequently, I often get comments from women who see him and say, "Oh, what a cutie!", to which I reply, "Thanks, and the dog ain't bad either!"
Around 4 pm we set our course for Long Island to visit Victor and Judy Picone. I met Victor when I got a job selling Encyclopedia Britannica in 1989 (before CD-Roms made the books almost obsolete). He was the Dallas East District Sales Manager and I was hungry to make a buck. Vic was sent from Florida to turn the district around and I decided to give it a shot. We instantly developed a friendship that transcended our work relationship. I haven't seen Victor in four years, but we just pick right up where we left off as if no time has passed.
It was a long and somewhat scenic drive of New York City, through early rush hour traffic, as we made our way to Long Island. Arriving around 5:30 pm, the Picones were preparing their home for the neighborhood Halloween party which would take place this coming weekend. Their neighborhood is the community everyone wishes theirs could be. They know all their neighbors and regularly get together to do things. The guys play poker. The women do women things. The kids play together. They take turns making meals and sharing them with each other. It is truly a remarkable thing.
Victor is a very special friend to me. He's one of those guys that is "real" with you, no matter what. He has had a particularly difficult life, but he doesn't let stuff get him down. And he seeks to share that which he has learned to help others better themselves, visiting nursing homes and reaching out to those in trouble. Victor now runs a successful communications company serving customers in the tri-state area. He prides himself on providing personal service to his clients, an edge that puts him head and shoulders above the larger corporations. Click here for Cellular Consultants.
Anyhow, Judy had made an excellent beef stew, along with rice and beans. We were only too glad to partake of a homemade meal! Great stuff, Judy! We also got to meet the latest addition to their family, 9-month old Christian. What a cute kid!
The time with the Picones passed too quickly and we had to leave since we had a one-hour drive back to Jersey. I don't know when we will see them again, but I'm sure we'll pick right up where we left off.
Tomorrow morning means packing, schlepping and driving. Next destination? Philadelphia, PA!
Oh, that reminds me. Time to select the contest winner!
"Carol" has correctly identified three of the nine cities in which we will be spending the night before we make it back to Edmond, OK. Her correct guesses in the proper order were Philadelphia, PA; Washington, DC; and Little Rock, AR. Congratulations Carol! I'll be sending you an email to find out where to send your prize (which won't ship until we get home!)
For the record, we WILL be stopping through several of the other cities mentioned. We just won't be spending the night there. Stay tuned to see where we end up next!
It's Del.icio.us!
Furl It!
November 18, 2003 04:50 PM
Hey buddy. Sorry I haven't had a spare moment in the past month. I can't believe it's been a month since we saw u guys. It was so great to see u and the whole family. You have so much to be grateful for this holiday season. Your family and love among all of u is spectacular. Judy and I always comment on the bond that all of you share. Thanks for the nice comments in your column. Your friendship and love is treasured.
Keep me in your prayers over the next few weeks. I need surgery on my left shoulder. I go in on the 26th. Judy and I are going to Aruba next month. A little celebrating my 40th.......
Again, my love to all. May God always continue to BLESS all of you.