If you ever watched Cheers, then you know the character of Norm. Norm was the guy that practically lived at the famous Boston bar and seemed to be there almost every day. It was as if the bar would not be the same without him. I am happy to say that I have my own Norm – but she’s a lot prettier – and her name is Karen.

Karen has been my friend for about three years now. We met right around the time that my apartment on Brigham Street became the first Paulie’s. From that very first party I hosted there, she came – and never seemed to leave. It got to the point where my guest lists for my parties became, “Karen and…”

After Paulie’s closed – so did our companionship for a number of reasons. We eventually fully lost contact, but I always wondered how she was and what she was doing, because besides being a regular at my parties – she was (and still is) a wonderful friend. She is a great listener, a secure confidant – and an excellent advice giver. So besides missing her as a guest at my parties – I missed her friendship as well.

It was Bradd’s death that brought her back into my life. Hearing through mutual friends about Bradd’s passing, she called me to see if I was ok. Since then, we have been talking again and catching up on old times.

Now that my house appears to once again be transforming itself into “Paulie’s II” – how fitting that I have my Norm back. In fact, it was last Sunday that I decided to redecorate my house and put up all of the signs and frames I had in my closet that I have been itching to place on the walls of my home. How fitting that the person that helped me decorate my second homebar be the one who spent the most time at the first one.

I hope that each of you have a friend in your life like Karen. Someone who is selfless, caring, giving – and most of all – true.

To Karen, I want to say thank you so much for your company, your friendship – and for re-taking your permanent place at the corner of my bar where you belong.