Throwback Thursday - A Blast from the Past at WPPI

"Big Daddy" Blair surrounded by his family and some great friends...Don's daughter Kathy, Bambi Cantrell and his son, Gary with me, Tony Corbell and Terry Deglau in the back row.

It's Throwback Thursday and there are so many old grab shots that bring back a story about Don Blair. This was taken around 2002 at the MGM on restaurant row on the way to the convention center. It was just one of those evenings, starting with a great dinner at Emeril's and a quick shot to remember the dinner.

As a photograph, it will never win an award, but it does get the prize for capturing a great memory and triggering one more Don Blair story.

I first met Don in 1987. We were at a convention some place on the planet and I was in awe of finally meeting the legend. This is back in the days when we all wore suits and I had on one of my favorite and probably most expensive ties. Don and I were introduced while he was sitting at a table with a half dozen of his "nieces". He stood up, shook my hand and said, 
                                                            " My man - That's a great looking suit and tie you have on."

I was flattered, trying my best to look as professional as possible. I'd only been in the job as president of Hasselblad for a few months. I smiled and thanked him for the compliment. His response, caught me totally off guard, but set the stage for one of my most cherished friendships...

                                                    "Keep wearing it. Maybe one of these days it'll come back in style!"

Every Thursday I make the same point. Don't miss an opportunity to capture those memories you're making at every workshop, convention, lunch meeting - whatever it is, document the moment, print it and file it away.  Those moments you're enjoying with associates and new friends today are going to be your most cherished memories tomorrow!