Well, folks, you’ve all had the opportunity to read the email. You’ve got me now!

I’d be at a loss for words . . . were I ever at a loss for words. 

First and foremost, I wish my dear friend nothing but love, peace, inspiration, expensive cigars and bourbon neat.

Oh, the stories I could tell! Mike has been with me through thick and thin. The first time we met in person, he introduced himself as Johnny Depp, standing as he was beside his good friend Sandy, otherwise known as Terri L. French. Throughout Covid, he reminded me (time and time again) that everything is perfect as it is. As Robert P. Moyer and I sat around his firepit a few years ago, he shot the arrow that gave me my true love. We’ve discussed everything from ours cats to astrophysics, Ram Dass to the incomparable talent formerly known as Prince.

Although I am nothing if not resilient, stoic when need be, and forward-thinking, there are a few moments in my life that I would cling to forever if I were to be so foolish. The HNA skinny dip, my son’s wedding in Vizag, India, and that hug Mike gave me before Bob and I drove away to begin our lives together.

But you’ve got me now! And we’re going to rock it at the altar Mike has created in celebration of creative expression. Failed Haiku has always been a playground for me, as both a poet and an editor. So, get ready, my friends, to let the sand fly!