So much to say about my parents. Mom and Jim have been my rock for many years.  Always there for me, for all of us.  They were there in my darkest hour, and they fully supported me when I decided to move to FL, which was definately the smartest thing I ever did.  They have welcomed Gary into the family with open arms, and they are the reason why we are having our wedding at the Aventura.  They have been so a part of the planning process, more than they know.  We couldn't do it without you!  xx

My Dad..........

So much to say here.  He has been away from me for so long, yet he is a part of everything I do, and his spirit still guides me.  I carry him with me everyday, and I know he would be happy with my choice.  I know he would have loved Gary.  Gary remembers meeting my Dad, all those years ago, in Aviano, and it made an impression.  I'll let him tell it..............

I remember being really nervous about meeting Chris' dad.  I was nervouse about meeting him and about him meeting my dad, who was going through a difficult time.  When we got to her house, Jim answered the door.  He smiled and shook hands.  I think he could see that I was really nervous and that he had nothing to be worried about.  In a matter of minutes, we were all laughing and joking.  I can't remember a time before, or since where anyone made me feel so calm and so welcome, SO quickly.  I think Jim had a hand, somehow, in putting Chris and I together, and I thank him for that.

Wow, so much to say about MY parents!

It would be an understatement to say that it has been a rollercoaster the last few years.  Not that Christine made it difficult, I couldn't have done it without her.  But I can't thank my parents enough for their love and support, we wouldn't be here without them.  So many times, just talking on the phone was all I needed, and they were always there.  They have been steadfast my whole life, quietly there beside me every day.  They welcomed Christine into the family immediately.  I know Dad loves her, because he spends so much time teasing her!  And Mom loves her because she takes such good care of me.  It is so nice to be in a place in my life where, once again, we are a more cohesive family, and enjoy each other.  We visit often, and we all are loving it.

Well, we can't omit this group!  This is where it all started, and our Saints family is with us all the way.  So many of our friends have been supportive and enthusiastic as we have grown in our relationship.  Even at long distances, their support means so much to us.  In the beginning, we were Saints...........................and at the end, we still are!  There was a magic about Aviano, and that magic is what binds the many friendships we continue to have with our Saints friends today, although we haven't seen them in many years.  Once a Saint, always a Saint.

The Raider Nation was Chris' second HS, an the one she graduated from.  So many of her Raider friends live in FL, and we get together with them often, starting with the first week she lived here.  They have absorbed me into their group, and I feel like one of them.  As with the Saints, we are lucky to enjoy a comradarie and connection with this gang that is special and lasting.  I haven't met all of Chris' Raider friends, but the ones I have are great, so I look forward to expanding that group.

My sister Goddesses, and is it ever great to be a Goddess!  These ladies were my first exposure to the Krewe life, and making new friends here in FL. They made me feel welcome, and I love being part of this group.  We have so much fun together, and we support each other.  Together with parades, events and our many charities, these ladies have given new depth to my life, and a new perspective.  I love these ladies.  xx

If there is one constant in my life, other than Gary and my parents, it's my brothers.  I'm the oldest and the only girl......................and my brothers have always been friends I can count on.  Through my whole life, they have always been there, and are so very special to me.

Jim has always been the brother I could tell anything, the voice of reason.  He "gets" me, and I know as long as he lives, no matter what, I will never be alone.  We were always together.  "Hold your sister's hand", "stand next to your brother" were phrases often heard in our house.  Just look at the pictures of us as children, its all there.  Born less than a year apart, Jim was my very first friend, and is, my best friend.  As children he was my champion, and as adults, well, he still is.  I couldn't love him more.

Joe was that special gift that came to us when I was 7.  Who needed dolls when I had him???  He has a special way about him, that can be wonderfully sweet and umexpected.  He will get in his car and drive 16 hours just to see me (like when I came home from Italy), or will sit down and write the most amazingly comforting letters (like the one you wrote to me after my miscarriage).  What else can I say about this guy?