Scarce the person who can make an out-of-placer feel more in place than this well-placed bartender from Bar None. With her outdoorsiness and my indoorsiness, I probably see her no more than once every two months. But the smile and the "hello there pretty lady" I get when we do meet renews her importance in my life.

This gal cares about people. She always makes it her place to be a friend to those who really need one. And I need many. And she has been many whether she realizes it or not. The girl who understands boys; she looks out for others when they get too messed up in the dreaded good job and sense of humor. (Remember the boys I told you about at the Ship, Danielle?) The girl who understands girls; she sees me standing on a street corner by myself and invites me to go have a beer. (Remember that night in front of Caines'?) The skilled sculptor who understands art; she reassures me that my artwork "rules" despite the art  "community's" attempt to impeach it into artlessness. (I've since completed your portrait if you want it.)