My Recollection of Events…

During a visit to see my good friend, Tom Garner, we sat down for lunch at the half-way house at the Bay Hill Country Club in Orlando, FL.  Soon after, Arnie drove up with his wife to have lunch, as well.  When he saw me, he came straight over and asked me If I’d take a pic with him!  Even though I was in the middle of lunch, and very stimulating conversation with Tom, I did the right thing.  I stood up, put a big smile on my face, wrapped my left arm around Arnie, while Tom graciously snapped an iPhone photo.  Arnie seemed ecstatic as he returned to his table – and I was glad I could bring a little sunshine into his day.

Tom’s Recollection of Events…

As Tom and I were enjoying our Chicken Salad sandwiches at the half-way house, Arnie and his wife drove up in their golf cart and took the table right next to us.  I was so excited my unsweetened ice tea was splashing over the edges of my Styrofoam cup. I tried to act nonchalant – but Tom wasn’t buying it.  As we finished and stood up to leave, Tom asked if I’d like a pic with Arnie?  I said, noooooo, please don’t bother him while he’s eating.  Tom assured me that it wouldn’t be a problem, and that Arnie would enjoy doing it.  And he did!  When asked, Arnie stood up and turned around so quickly, he still had Chicken Salad on his cheek.  He put his right arm around me with enthusiasm.  Like a true Pennsylvanian, his smile was warm and genuine.  Tom said that was the first time he saw me speechless.

I stopped hanging around with Tom.