Mike didn't love the beach as I do. It was a drinking trigger for him before I met him, so I didn't push ocean vacations for a long time.

In 2008, we spent time on Florida beaches while visiting my dad. Beachwalking was a daily activity, as was eating fresh seafood.

He was hooked.

Together, we enjoyed Pawley's Island, Hilton Head, Kitty Hawk. He ate his weight in clams, shrimp, and scallops, then walked it off.

I’m at the beach now. I saw the sunrise and turtle hatchlings this morning, and wished he was here. 

Actually, I think he is.

I really miss sharing news with Mike. I’ve thought so many times – especially recently – how much he would have wanted to know … well. 

If you know, you know. Winky face.

I woke up yesterday to the news that WVU’s Coach Huggins resigned. He’s had a tough year. He’s made some not-great news. Maybe this recent incident will be his wake-up call. 

I really don’t have anyone else to talk to about it, now that Mike’s gone.

I watched a TED talk recently about addiction, which concluded that the opposite of addiction is connection. 

I agree. I think Mike would, too.