“Living,” is the most accurate one-word description of our relationship. And it’s always been that way. We first met in a generic Irish pub & grub, Crogan’s of Piedmont CA. She showed up, which was an undeserved generosity as she recalls being blown off at least once before. Equally surprising was her decision to stay. Danielle walked in beautifully put together and clearly out of my league, like Aphrodite coming down to earth for a night of slumming with mortals. I’m sure I didn’t disappoint; nervously sitting at the bar, a drink or more in, stranded with a flat tire parked around the corner. We started talking and it was wonderful. The conversation was natural and the atmosphere timeless, just like the rye whiskey and French 75s we were sipping on. The bar closed and our second stop was our first kiss. It happened on the historic waterfront for Jack London Square. Shortly before the moment we arrived at Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon, a preserved watering hole establish in 1880 and legendary backdrop for inspiration, adventure and alcohol induced courage. I believe the affinity we share with the artists and boatmen of past centuries embodies the ambitious, passionate and enthusiastic nature of our relationship. We topped the evening off with late night sushi at Yoshi’s and poaching live music. To keep with the trend, our second date was a cross-country road-trip in a rented Camaro. We traveled up and down the Mississippi River, back and forth along the Gulf of Mexico, stopping in amazing places like New Orleans, Nashville, and Danielle’s Mum’s house. We experienced the French Quarter on New Year’s Eve, the world’s largest motorcycle collection and adjacent 16-turn Grand Prix circut, and the pristine white sand beaches of Florida’s Pan Handle. It’s been a life to the fullest since the very beginning and there is no sign of slowing down.