I just wanted to say THANK YOU to all of my friends for the birthday wishes yesterday. Having all of you in my life means more to me than I can possibly express. People ask me if being able to walk everywhere is the best part of living Downtown, and I tell them, “No. That’s number two. The best thing Downtown is the people.” I am so grateful to have all of you in my life. A few individual messages:
John Haley – Thanks for naming Bardog’s Daily Dog after me yesterday and putting “Happy birthday Paul Ryburn” on the board. That made me feel special.
Panda – Thanks for teaching me how to buy diapers. As soon as I put them on the bar, Bloom said, “You got the right kind!”
Blind Bear – I can’t tell you how happy I am to know all of you who work there. You have been my safe haven and security blanket this year.
Poker players – I haven’t played much lately but it is always a pleasure to sit at the table with you when I do. Muruako, thanks again for the PBR bowling pin.
Moody – A couple of months ago, I sat at the Bear with you and told you the entire bizarre story of my 2015. The first words out of your mouth once I finished were “I believe you.” That meant so much to me. Thank you for that.
Clay – Thanks for being such a great and supportive friend.
Katie Mac – Thanks for having my back. I appreciate it.
Moody Ques – Thanks for naming me director of P(B)R. I had never really considered being on the board until you offered me the role, but so far I am having a lot of fun.
B-RAD – You more than anyone have seen what my life has been like this year. Thanks for your friendship buddy. Phaedra, you too.
Rahul, Tony, Nate, Staci – It has been a pleasure brunching with you this year. Rahul and Tony, see you at Robata tonight. Thanks for arranging the birthday dinner.
South Main – I haven’t been down there that much lately but still consider you a part of my extended Downtown family for sure. I may come down there to watch Arkansas-Mississippi State with you if it isn’t the morning game (haven’t had a chance to check the time).
Work – You all may have noticed that I have been out and about Downtown in the daytime lately. I am dealing with some depression and anxiety issues and my work was absolutely wonderful about it, giving me leave until December 7 so I can have some time and space to feel less overwhelmed.
This kindness and generosity of my friends is a reminder that I have more things going great in my life than I do going wrong – A LOT MORE. Thanks so much to all of you.
On an administrative note, my Internet is out at home, so this blog may not see a lot of posts until it’s fixed. Netbooking it from the Monroe Avenue Branch Office right now.
I’ll try to be back tomorrow with a news post, but can’t promise it due to the connectivity problems.