Michelle has been my best friend since the 10th grade.  We were both cheerleaders, although not at the same time, we both loved silly things, the beach, Butterfingers on the curb, cruises in the 1966 Mustang her mom traded in (doh!), and we can pick up the phone at any time, despite how long in between and it feels like yesterday.  For that reason my word to describe her is stable.  She has been a constant and dependable force in my life for more than 30 years - that is amazing!  We laugh at the same dumb things still and can be honest and candid with eachother - the truest version of a best friend for sure!

I have known Heather since 2002 - we met at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas, my first entry into the awesome world of serving kids and making a difference - mostly in my life, but the side benefit of knowing the work I do has an impact on kids across the country. I chose Blessed to describe Heather because not only do I feel blessed to have her as a friend, but I am eternally blessed for her discipleship in helping me get to know my Lord and Savior. Heather gently nudged me time and time again to join her in church and it was at my weakest point when I decided to join her.  It was the perfect time for me to surrender to Him and ever since, my world is completely different and amazing. This marriage is just one form of proof. 

Julia and I met just two short years ago, but it seems like several. Just after Michael and I reconnected, so did she meet her husband, Drew who she married this past July. We are kins in connection, engagement and marriage and have a bond that ties us this way.  My word for Juls is Sweet.  Because there is no other word that truly describes her (although she is also funny, silly and squishy - inside joke). Everyone knows her as this, because she is the sweetest person you might ever meet; has not a mean bone in her body, emulates the spirit of the Man upstairs and refuses to be the naysayer - ever! She is a true friend in the broadest sense.

Although Natalie and I just met shortly after Michael and I reconnected, she has made me feel like part of the family since day one - in her most amazing way!  My word for Natalie is Fiesty because she is true to her word - good, bad or ugly - and will say what is on her mind always.  She is someone I can count on for the truth, advice or recommendations when it comes to this fabulous family and I look forward to getting much closer as we grow older!

Since we were kids in high school and cheerleaders together, I always knew Debbie had a great head on her shoulders and is why I have tremendous respect for her. There is something so strong about a person who you can call Grounded, which is my word for her. Debbie inspires me everyday with her love of people, especially those who serve our great Country and all that she does for them, and others, through her ministry of people. She is grounded because that was the plan for her and I am so grateful for her friendship and look forward to getting even closer as my almost sister-in-law!

Ashley is my soon-to-be step daughter and I couldn't be happier! Although already an adult, a mom of two and the fact that she is automatically turning me into a grandma, she is such a strong, good-hearted woman and I adore her.  My word for Ashley is Tenacious because she has fire like I have never seen in a woman and it makes her the strong, independent and confident woman she is and I envy that! She is an excellent mother to Aliya and Jaxen and I know her values will shine in her children for years to come. 

The only word I could ever use to describe the one person who filled my love tank from the moment I met her - my daughter Summer. As many of you know, she has a fierce love for a LOT of things in her life (common with teenagers, I suppose), but besides loving material things like Netflix, her iPhone, makeup and clothes, her love of animals and homeless people makes her quite unique.  I am proud of her everyday and, she fills my life with craziness and business most of the time, but mostly fills it with meaning. I love her to the moon and back and am looking forward to the woman she is becoming!

Having just met this beauty about three years ago, I must tell you she is such a shy thing, but when you get to know her she is the sweet young lady you would expect from her shyness.  Her playfullness is plenty and her Godliness is strong, she is a constant help to those around her and I am very much looking forward to being her aunt and seeing her grow - just hopefully not too fast! 

You know what I mean from the moment you meet Tally - she is fierce!  Fierce eyes, fierce heart, fierce will, fierce love - all around her know what a strong-willed young lady she is and when she finally warmed up to me, I knew what a special person she was.  Tally is also a very loyal and loving sibling and her love of family shines brighter than anything!  I am so excited to become her aunt, so that I can torment her fierceness! Haha!

Since Chris is my Best Man, I thought it fitting that I use these two words to describe him.  It's also fitting that the part of the official meaning of his name is "funny."  Chris is one of the most solid, caring and always there for you kind of men I have ever known.  I highly recommend having a convo with him during our festivities.  P.S. Ladies, he is single!

Mark, aka Marcus, has always been a godsend to have as a brother.  I've always relied on Mark for non-biased and solid advice on whatever is going on in my life.  Mark has always been the shoulder to lean on during hard times, or the guy to buy you a beer and cheers you to the good times. 

Although Jim and I attended high school together, I didn't get the opportunity to know him until we were adults. What I figured out real quick is what a strong-willed, solid family man he is.  Even in our 40s, Jim made it crystal clear I better not hurt his sis!! That's when I knew Jimbo and I were gonna get along just fine.  I'm honored to add him as a brother!

Yes, I know that's three words but I mean them in a loving way.  I wish everyone could have a best friend like this man! If he doesnt get you with his million dollar smile, he'll get you with his million dollar personality.  These are two of the many reasons why he is on TV daily (KMPH Fox 26, Fresno, CA - He'll appreciate the plug!) I'm very lucky to have Erik as a life-long best friend!

I knew Drew and I were going to be life-long friends since the day he looked over my fence and said, "Hey, what y'all barbequing and can I come over?  I have my own beer!"  Drew has many of the hard-core Southern hospitality and beliefs. He is a treasure of hilarious sayings, and a treasure to have as a friend.  If you get a chance to pull him away from his new beautiful bride, Julia, ask him to quote some "Forrest Gump."

Not only is it my pleasure to call Randy my nephew, but just as much a pleasure to see wha a fine young gentleman he is now! Anything Randy decides he is going to take on, it's no surprise to hear shortly after that it's accomplished.  His moral compass, love for family, kindness and love for life is impressive to say the least.  As a matter of fact, the only bad thing Randy has going for him is his employ: The San Francisco Giants!