RIVER
Baltimore
Okay, his name is really Michael, but since I already know 3 other Michaels from DC, we agreed I should call him by his nickname!  I think the best way to describe River is using his own words:

I'm a cynic who happens to be optimistic, an animated film buff who's into classical music who gets into alternative rock who happens to have a sensitive side, a poet who likes to play videogames, a homebody who loves dining out, a sports fan who likes the opera, an intellect who likes to dance who likes to draw.

We met up in 2000, and despite the occasional roller-coaster ride, we've been close friends ever since.  This is the poem that made me want to meet him...
 

NO PRESSURE

You're seated across me,
Smiling nervously as you clumsily
Sip your latte
And accidentally burning your tongue.
Your skin turns red.
It's the first date,
But there's no pressure over latte.
We chatted on the phone and
Agreed to meet here tonight.
Now I've arrived to a point in time
When I cannot possibly
Learn enough about the one sitting across
Having a hot latte.
And me trying so hard to impress,
Trying so hard to dazzle,
Trying so hard to mesmerize,
Fearing your judgement,
Fearing those awkward silences,
Waiting for you to say something,
Hanging on to your every word,
But there's no pressure over latte.
What kinds of thoughts are running through your head,
Wondering what you think about me,
Hoping you like me,
As much I as I like you.
But hey, there's no pressure over latte.