Living the Life, Johnny 5 Style

Well, it has been two plus years,

and many things have happened since I last saw you.

Many birthdays; two of mine and three of yours,

Countless parties; some with friends and some with family,

Many Redskins games (yes more losses than wins),

and a few road trips to Hokie football games.

There has been a wedding (and a kick ass one at that)

and a few trips taken; some overseas, some out west,

and even some to good ole Ithaca, NY.

Jobs have changed, and some have even retired.

There have been many Dave Matthews concerts, and

even a few Coldplay concerts.

Through events large and small,

you have been right there with us,

in spirit and in thought,

every hour of every day.

As for traditions, I also have John to thank for the bill at dinner last night.

Gina and I have made it a tradition to go out to eat at Levante’s at Dupont Circle in DC on John’s birthday. Levante’s was one of John’s favorite restaurants in DC. It is a Turkish restaurant with a huge sidewalk outdoor seating section reminiscent of a European café. During the summer, it is a great place to sit outside and enjoy some good food (and really good bread). And in pure John fashion, each year we bring with us a $5.99 bottle of “VT Hokie Bird Red” wine to celebrate. (The label does not even specify what kind of red wine, and that is your selection at the store, “red” or “white”) Well, two years down and two years in a row the bill has come and the restaurant has not included their $15 corking fee for the wine. So, thanks John, I know you had a hand in it! It would be a shame to pay a $15 corking fee on a $5.99 bottle of wine!

Miss ya, Bro.