Lee Wasdin was the first person I met at my new gym. He is nearly twice my age, and at 6’3” and 275 lbs he is more than twice my size, with a dominating masculine personality to match his frame. Lee, a former marine, cop, and S.W.A.T. team commander, gave me the nickname Miss Priss. I was initially offended, but gradually came to see a charm in his roguish banter, and a genuine kindness behind his macho demeanor. The friendship that developed between us was an unlikely one, but it has lasted more than three years, during which I’ve learned I can rely on Lee for help, advice—and recipes.