Things have pretty much always turned out for me. I've had some hard things in my life, but by and large, it all came out in the wash. I have stayed in touch with most
of the people who meant something to me (save a few, who are still not speaking to me....) and as I look back on the last 10 years of my adult life, I'd have to say I'm happy about where I'm at.
There were times where the people that loved me, weren't sure I had my head on straight. My issues with authority not withstanding, I think I had a pretty good head on my shoulders. Once I got past some of the bad decisions and self-absorption... I feel satisfied with it all though. I loved and lost (and loved some more) and connected with some truly amazing people.
I'd like to give a toast to some of those people who really had an impact in my life.
Tim - You really opened up a whole new world for me and I'm grateful to you for coming into my life and making me a better person. I know that all my success and happiness are largely due to the fact that I get to kiss you every morning. You make my day worth living. I am so looking forward to spending the rest of my life having adventures with you! LOVELOVELOVE!
Echo - I always looked up to you, and you always looked out for me. If it wasn't for you, I might not know how to drive a car. :) I'm glad we are still friends and you have always been and will always be the best friend I ever had. I LOVE YOU!
Ben - You were my first friend in Montana. You made me feel at home, cheered me up when I was down, and upgraded my taste in music significantly. If it wasn't for you, my obsession with 70's Soul and John Mayer, may never have happened. I'm so glad you're getting married! I wish you the best!
Beth (Boofy) - You fed me, taught me about thong underwear, and were always there to make me feel slightly guilty about my decadent and partying ways. I miss all our late night chats and the insane voice mails you'd leave in your chipmunk voice. You will always be my big sister.
Richie (Itchy) - You were everything to me for so long. My big brother, my transportation, my conscience, my only TIDY roommate, and my confidant. You never judged but always gave sound advice. And you taught me that gratuitous use of the word , "wicked" is REALLY cool. I don't call you enough, but I do think of you and I hope everything is wonderful in your life.
2NS - The first boy that I loved. Strike that, the first boy I OBSESSED over. I was damaged when we met. I was even more damaged when you left, but in the end, things worked out for the best. I always thought you sold yourself short, and maybe my views of you and I were clouded by other things, but when all is said and done, we had a GREAT friendship. I think we learned important things from each other. I'm glad we're still in touch...
Jefferoni - Hands down, coolest guy I met in my military career. When everything else seemed unclear and crazy with drama and emotion, your dry sense of humor and honesty stuck with me. It echoed in my thoughts, burnt into my memory, and made me a better person. Thank you!
Sarah - You are a sexy bitch, the cutest girl I ever kissed, and the best Mom ever. We were unlikely friends in the beginning, but in truth, we've lasted FOREVER. Some of my BEST memories are with you and Yo, and Lizzy. You were the one who gave me a taste of the fun that was outside my dreary military existence. I love you so much!
Tom - When the dust settled, we were on two opposite sides. I don't know if that will ever change. You showed me truth, and honesty, and made me feel like I meant something in the world. I know your life will have settled by now, and I have no doubt that you'll have landed your "perfect girl" like you always wanted. I hope you're happy, wherever you are. Know that you meant so much to me, and even though I think things turned out the way they should have, I'm sorry to have hurt you.
Janice - You are the most BADASS girl I ever knew. You were always so kind to everyone, and so much fun. I wanted to be just like you. I hope wherever you are, you're playing soccer, force feeding your girls pasta, and being the hottest little greek girl in cleats. I miss you!
Jessica - You were the best thing I got out of my relationship with Neill. I got custody of you. (Thank GOD!) You were and will always be one of my dearest friends. I miss all the fun times we had with Monica and Byron and Mike and Greg and everyone. It really was a moment in time that I will always cherish. I hope you're having the time of your life in Italy!
Daniel - You have always been my creative sounding board, my poetic mirror image, and my source of hours of entertainment. After all these years, it's the wine, women, and song (as well as the White Russians, Uno, and Blizzards) that keep us together. You will always be one of my DEAREST friends.
Since I left the Air Force, I have met a lot of wonderful new friends who have made my life SO much fun.
Dane - I consider you my brother, my family, and one of my dearest friends. You make our lives (and the kitties lives) better, and certainly more entertaining.
Charleigh - My trial by fire into the real world was softened by your expertise and support. I love all the things you have brought into my life (rock climbing especially) and I look forward to spending many lazy summers eating/drinking/fire watching/playing set with you. and your farty little dog. ;)
Gillian - You've become my sister in every way. We match, in the little things that count, and your constant internet presence makes you a must-have in my daily life. :) I hope we will always be friends. Viva Las Vegas!
And now, to sleep.
fin.
~e
