As much as I don't want to say good-bye...

So you can't turn on the TV or pick up a paper since Friday without seeing the story about Tim Russert.

I happen to live in his home town...and even more than that, I live across the street from his father, Big Russ. Zach started off in the same elementary school that Tim attended, and we all met him when he came home for one of his frequent visits. When our town finally cleared the land at the end of our street and built a park, it was the brother of my son's best friend who suggested it be proclaimed Tim Russert Park. Several of my friends attended Tim's high school, Canisius.

There is not a person in this city that is not sad about the loss of our friend. Tim was just a down to earth guy. One of the last gentlemen. When you talked to him, he was just a Buffalo guy, like his father.

I would be lying if I told you I didn't tear up that afternoon, when I got several calls at work about Tim. And then again at the news compilation of Tim's hometown spirit and another about his son, Luke. And all of us cried at the picture of Luke touching his dad's Meet the Press chair, on a darkened stage.

I am sure many other people can put it more eloquently. To say Tim will be missed is an understatement. I take comfort in the fact that part of him will go on in his son, Luke. The Russert's have done an amazing job and raised a mature, intelligent and incredible young man. I watched his interview with Matt Lauer again this morning and he just blows me away with his grace and confidence. I am glad Tim and his wife gave us that gift, his son.

I am not good at good-byes. I hate them actually. I guess I am like my grandmother, Betty. She would NEVER say good-bye..always "see you later"

So, I say "Good Journey, Tim"
When I get to heaven ( if I make there ..it is not looking too good so far) I wanna see you interview quite a few people. I am sure they have re-runs up there.

Tim, you are loved and greatly missed.