Oh happy day

From the left:
Amanda, Emily's long-time friend.
Heidi, another long-time friend...and scribe.
Natalie: Natalie is a large part of the reason I was blessed to meet Emily. A few years ago she elected, along with her sister, to move to Portland. Emily heard they liked it, so she also moved here. Later, Natalie and her sister moved again, Natalie to Las Vegas and Courteney to Lincoln. Fortunately for me Emily stayed.
Nikki; Stories of their childhood together are definitely some of those "Aaaaahhhhh" moments. Lots of sweetness there.
Then, of course, the most awesome girl in the world. I am so grateful she puts up with me.
Me.
Dad: I have been extremely blessed to have Dad as my parent. He has taught me all I know about being a decent human being. I know a lot of people who have criticized some aspect or other of his parenting. Well, I have this to say; every place in my life where I follow his instruction has proved to be beneficial and prudent. Every place I have gone against his instruction has brought naught but misery and pain. I am thankful every day such a wise, caring man is my Father. As a sidenote, after Mom died, when he remarried I was his best man. To be chosen over Larry or Greg or...well, there are a lot of people it could have been, and for it to be me...that is an honor I will take with me to my grave.
Kenneth; 11 years younger and still a good friend. He and his wife are expecting their child. I was in his wedding, too...which, I think, is a good sign for our friendship.
Phillip; The youngest of we siblings, and again...I was in his recent wedding to Tracy. I could not ask for a better brother or friend.
Gabe; My brother in law. It has been a pleasure getting to know Gabe and I enjoyed our journey to his hometown a couple Christmases ago.