Twenty-eight years ago, I was a freshman at Mercy High School in Middletown, CT.  On the very first day of school I was lucky enough to make some wonderful friends.  I had a very rough time in middle school.  I was a nerd, dressed differently, really, really loved Star Wars -- things that set me far apart from the cool kids at school.  At Mercy, I made good friends quickly.  Good, lasting friends.

In fact, last year, I ran the Marine Corps Marathon with two of them: Kat and Jen.  (Correction: I ran after them at the Marine Corps Marathon...they are both pretty darn speedy.)  And this past weekend, I was blessed to get together with them again, as I watched my dear friend Kat marry the love of her life.  Jen was a bridesmaid, and Kat and Stephen honored me by asking me to do the first reading.

I practiced that reading, and I had it down.  The entire time we drove from Baltimore to Ocean City, I practiced that reading.  I was ready.  I met with the pastor before the ceremony.  I knew what to do.  Nothing was going to mess with this reading.  And then I saw Kat beaming at her husband-to-be and Stephen lovingly watching his beautiful bride.  And I started to cry.  Approximately 60 seconds later, it was my turn to read.

I was a hot mess.  I was so emotional that Kat had to hold the reading for me while I held the microphone.  I had to stop multiple times.  Yes, I cried then, and I'm crying again just thinking about it.  I am lucky enough to have people in my life whom I treasure, and Kat, Stephen and Jen are three of them.  Kat and Stephen's happiness this weekend overflowed my heart, and it just poured right out in the form of the tears I shed at the wedding.

This weekend, I was reminded that the very special people remain in our lives.  I am blessed to have  some incredibly special people in mine.  To Kat and Stephen, may you live a long and beautiful life together.  Jen, don't forget the Flat Laura.  To Everyone, may you find and cherish your own special people.

Twenty-eight years can go by in a flash