Tribute #20: Mike Gold

Friends that have known me awhile don't always believe me when I say this, but in new situations I'm an extremely shy person. When I was starting out in Atlanta it took me awhile to open up to my classmates. In group settings I tended to be the quiet one, and I'll always remember Mike Gold as one of the people who helped me come out of my shell. 

An extremely intelligent person, Mike is the kind of guy who takes the time to learn what makes people tick. Since our very first conversation I have always found it easy to open up to Mike. He goes out of his way to be a great friend and once you're his friend he's in your corner no matter what. 

Mike, thanks for being one of my first and best Circus friends. You're one of the most genuine people I know, and the devotion you have to your friends and family is amazing. I'm excited to see what the future holds for you and Jaime, and wish you both a world of happiness.    
  
Today's Musical Selection >

 A One-of-a-kind Guy

Tribute #19: Kristin Butler

One of my favorite jobs in college was working as a barista at a coffee shop. I loved getting to know the regulars and having their drinks ready the minute they stepped through the door. One of these regulars was a very creative woman who would come in to enjoy a latte (I want to say a decaf mocha, but it's been awhile) and work on her art. As it turns out, this awesome woman happened to be the mother of Kristin Butler. 

I felt like I knew Kristin before I even met her. Her mother talked about her with such pride, beaming about what a smart, creative, and hard working daughter she had. Kristin and I ended up attending the Creative Circus around the same time, and though parents can be a bit biased now that I know Kristin I can attest to her mother's claims.

Kristin, thanks for being a great example of where hard work can get you. You seem to excel at whatever you set your mind to and that's a great quality to possess. Hope you're doing great and congrats on your recent engagement!  

Today's Musical Selection >

She's Going the Distance

Tribute #18: Lori Hartlein

A few years back I ventured to Boston to meet up with my Dad for a wedding weekend. It was a rare opportunity to see him, and I'll always be grateful we got to spend that quality time together. I remember when I first arrived, in the midst of the wedding festivities, I felt out of place as I hardly knew anyone. However, throughout the weekend I became more at ease as I got to know the family and I'm very fortunate that I got to meet the groom's cousin Lori Hartlein.

There are some individuals whose positivity and warmth radiate from the core and Lori is definitely one of them. She's someone who's genuinely interested in people's stories and experiences, and wants to learn all about you instead of talking about herself. From what I did learn about Lori, her adventures far outweigh mine and she makes life a constant exciting adventure.

I greatly admire Lori's take on life. She left the corporate world to move to a small town in Georgia. There she lived on a lake and could paddle boat to her heart's content. Living simply and making a living through her art, she seems to have the recipe for happiness. 

Lori, thanks for being an excellent role model for leading a creative, free-flowing life. I really look up to your carefree spirit and hope that you're living life to the fullest. When you get a chance please give your Aunt Sandy my love. 

Today's Musical Selection >

A Role Model for Happiness