In the last few years, I've reconnected with old friends, colleagues and fellow college roommates, mostly by chance, often at times through either this website via a search engine or some other networking site.  Just seeing a brief message from an old friend sparks up fond memories of youthful days gone by.  It's always nice to hear from them and get an update as to what they're lives are like now.
Even though I've left my old life behind me, some of the roots of my youth still linger on.  I am still a Philadelphia Phillies fan, and yes, I truly believe that they have a shot at making the playoffs this year.  And last night, I sat through a roller coaster ride of a Monday Night Football game, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles as they went down to a narrow defeat handed to them by the rival Dallas Cowboys.
While New Jersey is physically a small state compared to many others in the U.S., it's got a lot to offer as it's "sandwiched" in between New York, Philadelphia and the Poconos.  You've got ski resorts in the winter, parks in the spring and fall, and the beaches in the summer.  And for the sports and music fans, there are theatres, stadiums, ballparks and arenas to indulge to your heart's content.  People from outside of New Jersey give the state a bum rap, but I don't think they realize the many opportunities and things the state has to offer.
Don't forget that this Sunday September 21st is 6th Annual Champion of the Grill at the Sussex County Fairgrounds.  Lots of great tasting food, music, classic car show and for you aspiring singers, Sussex County Idol.  With free admission and free parking, I may just head on out there to sample some of the recipes from the local community.  Hopefully, I might just see you there!
And yet, it's still a small world after all...