My beautifully wonderful friend, Crissy.

There are people in this world that show you the way, everyday. We meet so many friends in our lifetime that there is no chance we could ever remember all of them. Some of them are more memorable than others and then there are the elite members...the ones that will always be close to your heart no matter which direction you take in life. That elite class of individuals have certain characteristics that are unwavering. One thing about them is there uncanny ability to love life. Crissy is one of those people.

I met Crissy in grad school. We were just trying to get through the mundane tasks of homework and projects for 3 long years. We went to class together, studied together, and even completed a couple of projects. I may have taken for granted the time that I got to spend with her because at that time in my life, I thought 3 years was an eternity. Now that I have realized that it's a blink of an eye, I regret not living in our moment. There are so many times that I wish I could back to. A night out with the girls after class should have happened more often. A study group for statistics should have turned into a "little bit longer than necessary gab session." We had the moment, and it just slipped right by. It seems like a lifetime ago. Now, we have graduated, married, had some kids, bought a house, etc. Our lives have changed quite a bit over the past few years, and like many other relationships it has become less and less important to have that gab session. I miss her. I miss that moment, but I am not afraid of what will happen to our relationship. I am not afraid at all, because that elite group of people also have the ability to follow you wherever you go, no matter how bad you are about calling back or missing birthdays, or sending cards, that elite friend is one that just sticks around for everything, always. I am truly grateful for that friend that loves life, smiles always, and stays close even after 5 long years. I am truly grateful for her. I love you, Crissy. Thanks for your friendship. I will cherish it always.

**Just a side note--Crissy is welcoming her second little bundle in March. We are SO excited for her , Andy (dad), and (big sister) Callie. That little guy is the luckiest man alive. I CAN'T wait to snuggle him! =) Congrats!!!