To Norman:
It was October 1992 in Anaheim, CA when we met for the first time. This was slightly over a year after our arrival in the US, and our first big meeting on this continent. I was very nervous standing by the poster by myself when I saw a guy with the backpack heading toward me. He stopped in front of our poster and communicated with strong British accent: “my wife Kasia, who is Polish as you are, asked me to check on you”-and that was the beginning of our friendship that continues to these days.
We keep seeing each other at least once a year at various meetings either here in the US or in Europe. But we also visited Kate and Norman at their lovely house in Hobart. We had a great time together since they both are exemplary hosts. Although Kate has never visited us, their son Peter spent some time with us, and Norman also paid a visit to our house in Providence. We always had fun together whether it was when we dined out or when we were “crossing swords” in heated scientific discussions. We were simply taking pleasure in each other’s company-enjoying good music or drinking good wine.
Adam and I are extremely happy that we could participate in this special symposium dedicated to Norman’s long scientific career and also to celebrate his belated 80th birthday. It is even more exciting that this celebration is taking place in Melbourne that has been home to Kate and Norman for a long time.
Here is a toast to you Norman-to many more years of great research coming out of your laboratory and to friendship that has past the test of time.
With very best wishes,
Joanna and Adam