37

I had to get Steve's keys to get in the white trailer to get the ramps out to put something in the van. Annie (the dog) picked up on it, that I had "Daddy's" keys, and she went NUTS, nudging the keys, yipping and hopping around like she was going to jump right out of her skin. It was a sweet thing to see how much that puppy loves Steve Newby, that she remembers him and got so excited about his KEYS, like she thought he must BE here if these are his keys ... and so incredibly sad to know that he's not. 

Anyone know Steves' connection with the number 37? That was Skipper Casey Stengel's number, 37. Also the number assigned to inmate "Cool Hand" Luke in the movie of the same name. One of Steve's favorite baseball greats and one of Steve's favorite movies. Steve's favorite number, 37.

So yesterday I was in Norman setting up this show I'm doing there. Got most of it in place and decided to take a break, go down to Braum's, get something to eat. I ordered a bacon cheeseburger because I like them, a small order of fries because I could, and a small vanilla malt in honor of Steve, who loved malts, especially Braum's vanilla malts. The clerk rung me up, took my money, and gave me my receipt. Order # 37.

Reminds me of what a dear old (also now departed) friend used to say - "He's not gone as long as we're here to remember him." 

I miss you  Sweetheart.