Eau de Mike

More than a dentist

While reading a local paper the other day, my eye fell on a familiar picture on, of all places, the obituary page. I was extraordinarily shocked and saddened to learn that my dentist extraordinaire, Richard Barrera, had passed away.

He was recommended to me by my primary care physician, and I liked Richard the moment I met him. He was so sweet, friendly, comforting, and kind. I can honestly say I never felt one moment of pain while sitting in his chair, including the two crowns he had to give me when I cracked a few molars in a nasty fall a few years ago. Getting them fixed was such a non-event. He held his instruments with confidence and grace, and used them with such speed and skill; it was a great thing to behold, even from the nervous patient's perspective.

I ran into him one sunny weekend while jogging at Chrissy Field a few years ago. He ran over to me, hands waving, big smile on his face, to say hello. Every birthday, he sent me a hand-written card in congratulations, signing it "Richard," not "Dr. Barrera."

He retired a few months ago, and it's obvious now why he did so. I can only hope his last few months were joyful for him and his loved ones.

Thank you, Richard, for all you did for me, and for going beyond what "just a dentist" need ever do for a patient. We will all miss your light.

Bye, Betsy.

 Today I got the sad news that my favorite dog, Betsy, passed away to that great big kennel in the sky. Betsy belonged to my good friends and was actually my roommate for my first year in San Francisco. Until I met her, I wasn't crazy about dogs at all. In fact, I didn't like them, period.

But Betsy changed all that. She converted me into a dog lover with her huge, brown eyes and the way she would rush to get her chew toy to show me when I got home from work. And the way she would hear the crinkling of the plastic wrap around a slice of American cheese as I unwrapped it and come running upstairs to get a piece.

She was a great dog and I'll really miss having her around. We love you, Betsy!

Not Tamales

Here's my second piece for the community-minded Sparks column in the SF Bay Times. True story, unfortunately. Sometimes I really wonder about people. You can read it here. Or here.

Just a Suggestion

Everybody send a sprig of sage to Washington so  the Obamas can burn it in every room of the White House and all the evil can be smoked out.

Best. Poster. Ever.

I wish I knew who created this, or could even remember where on the Web I found it. But it's so elegant and profound. Makes me proud on many levels: professional, personal, patriotic.