To the Girl on the F Train in 1996

You had a face that could make a young man dream, and I was just a young man. The minute I got close to you an irresistible urge began rising inside of me. My lungs tightened and my breath grew short. I could think of nothing to say.

We were face to face on the way to work. And to the future. Were you as kind as you looked? Did you notice me too? What could have been?

The train was so packed that our feet barely touched the ground. My arms were pinned to my side by strangers. Hundreds of strangers, and all I remember is you.

The urge kept rising. My chest felt ready to explode. And explode it did. With a big, phlegmy cough right in your face. I couldn't even get my hands up to cover my mouth.

I had bronchitis that day. And I am sorry.

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One Morning in the Charlestown Dog Park

The labradoodle didn't notice the commuters shuffling by. He didn't hear the hum of traffic on the Zakim Bridge or notice the trains rolling into North Station. The cold rain meant nothing. All that mattered was the tennis ball. The only thing he wanted in this world was for his owner to throw that ball across the lawn with the chucker stick.

He jumped and spun as his owner fussed at the car. What's taking so long? His barks turned to pants and his pants turned to pleas. Throw that ball! I need that ball!

She cocked her arm, flicked her wrist and the ball flew. He flew after it. It bounced high. He jumped and caught it as it fell. He began to sprint back. Then he stopped on a dime and pooped, never letting the ball out of his mouth. Sometimes you just need to live in the moment.

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Kickoff Conversation with 2015

Welcome! We're all excited you're here. I want to chat about goals and expectations to help you make the most of your time with us, and help us get the most out of you, too.

First, you need to focus on execution. Many Years are really busy but somehow don't get their to-do lists done. Talk is cheap. You need to finish things. 2014 always struggled with this.

Which leads to number two: time management. I know I'm 9 days late here, but that's kind of the point. I need your help staying on track. There's only so much time in a Year. You have to prioritize and plan constantly.

Finally, aim high. Some Years, nothing really changes. That's OK since life is good, but let's raise the bar. I've got some ideas, but I want you to drive this. What do you want to do? Think big!

Let's talk next week.

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