It has been a year since we lost our friend and collaborator Dr. Alan Ross last New Year's Eve. Another post was needed to make sure all of you out there remember not only Dr. Jezik from Cannonball, but a son, brother, friend, doctor and above all else one of the most wonderful human beings that has ever graced this terrestrial plain. There are so many of you who have been touched by the man who took care of your pets (myself included) as if they were his own and treated you as if you were the only client he had. I had the pleasure of knowing Alan since I was about eight years old and I can say he was one of the funniest people I have ever known. Our relationship strengthened in church and school and the journey from then to now is kind of what James Taylor was talking about in the Secret O' Life. Enjoying the passage of time. There is not a day that goes by that I don't want to call him and tell him something only he would think was funny, because it was me telling him and we just got each other. His number is still in my AT&T top ten, can't seem to get rid of it. As 2012 approaches, keep your friends in mind and don't feel awkward telling them you love them and how much they mean to you. Be thankful for those friends you have that are still here to share those dumb jokes and crazy observations, and also be thankful for the friendships you had that have made you the person you are today. To Alan, you walked softly with us and you continue to inspire us and make us smile all our days. Thank you and cheers.