Tuesday, November 20, 2007

GIVING THANKS....

Sorry for the lack of posts recently. I hit one of those busy stretches that kept me away from the computer for awhile. The weekend was a whirlwind of activity that included HUGE victories for the State of Ohio; both of my favorite football teams (OHIO STATE and CLEVELAND BROWNS) won "must-win" games and that brought a smile to my face.

The bar itself was busy all weekend, which was also a good thing, especially with the upcoming Thanksgiving Day weekend (which is typically a slow one). Lots of laughs to be had, especially on Sunday, where the Washington Redskins fans provided the comic relief in place of STEELER NATION, who went to the Pittsburgh/NY Jets game at the Meadowlands (only to be stunned with an upset loss). One particular Redskins fan found himself really gung-ho for his team to the point where the rest of the bar became a bit "concerned" about his "passion". Of course, AFRIKA BAMBATTA had to stir the pot by busting his chops (keep in mind, he's the president of the Washington Redskins Fan Club, Third and Long Chapter). When he prodded our friend TURBO about his passionate behaviour, my man TURBO came out with this classic ditty of a line:

"Why don't y'all let me be me and y'all be y'all!"

Like I said before: classic.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I can't help but to reflect on the past year. It's been one hell of a roller-coaster ride, both for the bar and for myself. With everything that's happened this year, let me give thanks for the following:

To my family: Even though it's been quite awhile since I last seen them, they know that they remain an important element of my life. I speak to them all the time and although it isn't quite the same as seeing them face-to-face, I love and cherish them all.

To my friends: I've been in New York for over 20 years now and I often wonder what would have been had I not made the choice to come to New York. One thing is for sure- I have no regrets as I have made a slew of great friends and acquaintances over that time. In the time that I have been associated with Third and Long alone, the friends I've made I hold dear to my heart. Within this mix I have to include the weekday regulars as well as the SUNDAY BREW CREW. An eclectic mix of personalities, these guys and girls have helped to keep my zest for life alive and well. And for that, I will always be appreciative.

To my blog readers: Thanks for your continued support. On days where I have a lot to say and on days where I don't have much to talk about at all, you continue to come back each day and for that, I'm thankful. I'm even thankful when I get emails from you pushing me to post something. 40,000 hits for a small blog like mine ain't too bad!

To the Long Family: Ever since my initial meeting with them 16 years ago, they have welcomed me with open arms. At the beginning, when they didn't know me from a hole in the wall, they gave me an opportunity to prove myself in the bar business. Along the way we became close friends and ultimately, a member of the family and I am honored be considered as such. They are the definition of "family" and their loyalty knows no bounds. And for that, I will always be appreciative.

To New York City: She's one hell of a town. I cannot think of one place where you can truly be what or who you want to be. You have the ability to reinvent yourself whenever you like, just as the city has done, time and time again. Where else can you live among 8 million people and have the opportunity to stand center stage or get lost in the crowd all at the same time? I guess the reason why I've lived here for so long is because there's always something new to pique my interest. You never get tired of this town and for that, I'll always be appreciative.

I could go on and on, but I think you get my drift. Life is short so I make it a point to be appreciative of a lot of things in my life, both large and small. Hopefully each of you will take the time to do the same.


Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. Oh, and by the way, if you do find yourself traveling the highways and byways of the world, take a few pics and send them back to me. The Third and Long Wall of Fame needs a little love.



NuFF said