In my first post, I spoke of some of great things that make James….James.  There was a common thread through each of the examples, he’s a caring guy that loves to meet people.  Through extended interactions with him, you will realize that you have become quick friends with him.  And when James forms a friendship, it is everlasting.  

Over a decade ago, James used to own a small chain of candy stores.  Running the stores has been James’ most favorite job, and something that he DEARLY misses to this day. I hate to even bring it up, but is necessary because of his friend Heidi.  While hiring to staff one of the stores, a teenage Heidi joined the team as an after school job.  James and Heidi hit it off, and have been friends for over fifteen years.  Sometimes, it is more like a big brother/little siter relationship, which James LOVES even more.  Due to how life works out, Heidi does not always live close to us, but they try their best to remain close.  A short while ago, Heidi moved to Northern Califoria, hooray!  We’re now in the same state!  I had reached out to Heidi with my master plan, and she was definitely ready to do anything needed to make this birthday special.  We received a stroke of luck when we learned that James had to travel to the Bay Area for work for a few days…at the beginning of the 40 days.  I called Heidi, and she actually declared that she was going to take two of the forty days and celebrate with James after work.  Heidi and James spoke, and there was casual conversation about making getting together one evening, he had no idea.

Family and friends who are apart of this enormous celebration, are dictating what they want to do with James.  Heidi instantly had an idea.  Day 3 was a peek into James’ love of Scotch.  It should be no surprise that he also enjoys a fine cigar as well.  For Day 4, Heidi set up James to meet her at restaurant for a quick meal.  He arrived early, and immediately could smell the cigar smoke.  After Heidi arrived, they made their way into this cigar lounge that also served Lagavulin…not just the 16yr, but the Distiller’s Edition.  A rare find in retail, even harder to find at a bar.  A great night with a good friend, good cigars and amazing glass of scotch.  Day 4 was a success, thank you Heidi!

Cheers to 40!