Dave Barry

Dave Barry is taking a leave of absence.

I have been reading Dave Barry's column (and books) since I was a little girl. I've been laughing at him and with him since before I could totally understand all the humor. It was just funny to me. My dad would get the paper, and while he read "important stuff", I'd sit with him and read the comics, the horoscope and Dave Barry.

I met Dave Barry on various occasions, all of them while I was in college. He probably has no recollection of me personally, and I'm surprised I have any recollection at all, as most of these occasions were at local bars around town and I was, more likely than not, sloshed.

He even gave the key note address at my company's annual meeting a few years ago (which I missed and almost cried about).

The guy has never missed a column, in like 20-something or 30 years. He's been a constant part of my life, and now that he's taking that part of my life away from me (for a much-deserved break), I'd like to take a moment to just show my appreciation for all the laughs he's brought me (and millions) throughout the years.

Just thought I'd share. I'm sure some of you are also fans.

I love his columns, his column had been read in my house on sunday mornings while I was growing up, and is now done in my house with my kids listening.