Like many here, I have probably also spent more $$$ since finding FT, but the numerous friends I have met and DOs and events I have attended have been worth every penny.

Not a smoker, but had my first Cuban cigar complements of Cigarman in Montreal and learned how to REALLY do dim sum from Punki. Still have ringing in my ears from the speedboat ride through the rapids. Returned to Germany and celebrated beginning of Fasching in Dusseldorf (wasn't that 2001?) and left my bottle of microbrew from essexjay at the restaurant (sure somebody enjoyed that but it wasn't I). Joined last minute gathering at nice Argentine restaurant just outside MIA while on vacation in FLL and finally met Catman in persona after countless PMs. Cool night on the town in LAS with Ling during UNLV homecoming trip.

Job change and life change in 2004 made me scarce but here's to many more memories for the future in 2008. God bless, God speed, and Happy New Year!

ThanxaBunch,

Jim