Before writing anything about my time in London, I would be remiss in not thanking a few people. As I was working my way through Spain and The Netherlands, I kept a wary eye on the exchange rate between the Dollar and the Pound. It wasn’t a pretty picture.
I had a couple contacts in London, and was hopeful that I might be able to find some floor space somewhere. However, a few emails would later reveal that they were either out of town, had guests already, or simply didn’t reply.
Anyway, to make a long story short, a few of my good friends came through, and in a big way. Without their kindness and hospitality, I probably wouldn’t have spent more than two or three days in London. And, to top it off, they showed me a wonderful time while I was there. So without further ado, I’d like to thank:
Justin. Justin and I go way back, owing our friendship to a couple jokers named Ressler and Gabrick, as well as to a little project in London in 2003. When I got an email from Justin earlier in the trip inviting me to come by if/when I made it to London, it was exciting to say the least. I ended up staying almost a week at Justin’s apartment in North London, even some time when he was in Paris working on a new project.
Justin, thanks much for everything. Your apartment was a little place of Zen for me for a week, and allowed me to get a lot of much needed writing, thinking and resting done. Also, thanks for the use of the phone, the visit to Nandos, the geek-fest with Bakie at the Star Wars Exhibit, and of course, hitting Transformers with me. I owe you huge man.
Mickey and Kristen. Mickey, Kristen and I also go back a ways. Mickey and I first met at a Cerner holiday party in KC many moons ago. Remember that, Mick? Since then, we also worked together on the now infamous project in London. Once back stateside, I was introduced to Kristen Mick’s significant other, and now better half. I had completely forgotten about Mickey and Kristen being over in London. A few emails later, I had an additional place to stay for a while.
Mickey and Kristen, Thank you for your generous hospitality, and your wonderful welcoming attitude. Would you believe they even met me at the tube stop when I arrived? And to top it off, after a discussion on the value of a Chipotle burrito, Kristen organized a Mexican Fiesta with a group of other Cerner folk one night. And, I’ll speak for others – Mickey, you’re a lucky man to have a woman that can cook enchiladas like that. It was absolutely great to spend some time with you, and catch up on things back home.
If I ever grow up and buy/rent a house some day, you’re all coming over for a gathering of epic proportions. Or, at least a few tasty beverages and some pizza.
Thanks guys. You made a huge impact on my trip – in more ways than you know.
