OLD FRIENDS

          In the last week, twice I had the opportunity to spend time with a friend I have known for 15 years.  It is funny how much I can be myself around Tristan.  He knows me from when I had just moved back to Pittsburgh in the early-mid 90's.  He knows about my Pegasus days.  He knows all about my obsession with plants and nature.  He knows about my trials and tribulations. 

        I also know him well.  We met in Pegasus, of all places.  This was back in 1994-5 when the place was still on Liberty Ave. and was still fun as hell.  I remember dancing all night till I was soaking wet.  I remember taking my shirt of and dancing. Something I am too repressed to do at my advanced age.  I remember running around from group to group socializing. 

        When I returned to Penn State, Tristan and I lost contact for a bit.  This happens with friendships and relationships in general.  After coming back to Pittsburgh for the second (official) time we ran into each other at Spin once or twice.  We exchanged phone numbers.  We didn't really keep up though.  Within the past few months we have become close again.  I spent Tuesday with him.  We went to Phipps Conservatory and then the Home Show at the Convention Center.  After wards we went to 5801 for dinner.

       Saturday, yesterday, I took my friend Nick to Phipps Conservatory, then we went to Elbow Room for an early dinner.  I called Tristan to see if he was at work.  Nick and I sat around talking to Tristan and the girls for about 20 minutes then went on our way to 5801.  Tristan met us there.

          It is amazing the effect old friends have on me.  I felt no need to hold back, I could totally be myself.  Knock on wood this is the year I stop holding back.  Stop repressing.  This is the year I open up and show off the good things that make me me.