I've heard people describe Felicia as one of the most caring people they've ever met and I'd have to agree 100%. I'd also add she's so sweet and so sincere that you're almost unable to believe she grew up in Brooklyn and lives in NYC -- nothing against Brooklynites or New Yorkers of course, but most have an edge, that Felicia doesn't have -- well, unless you've been lucky enough to meet "Debo" but that's a story for another day...
I've heard people make fun of their brother-in-laws. I have to admit it's funny stuff. Unfortunately, my brother-in-law-to-be doesn't provide me with any material. We actually enjoy hanging out together. Derek is one of those guys who could be President. I'm not kidding. He's righteous, intelligent, charismatic, genuine, witty, and articulate. And he doesn't possess any of that political ambivalence or macho ego junk that other politicians seem to relish. He's even worked for a senator and still remains true to his beliefs. Having said all of this, I don't want you to get the impression that Derek is a straight-laced square. He can enjoy a good night out as much as the next guy, especially if the next guy drinks beer in bulk. Ask Derek about his affinity for large mugs of German lager and limoncello. His drinking skills are similar to the rest of his talents: impressive. I'm lucky to have him as a brother-in-law, friend, and groomsmen. Have I mentioned that Derek is currently in law school? Yeah, he's a driven individual who doesn't do anything half way. The one thing he doesn't do is give me what I need to make fun of him. Well, I guess nobody is perfect.
My cousin Renee has always been a strong presence in my life. She is the cool cousin who we would wait by the window for when we were younger, we'd hear her car come speeding in the driveway and run out to greet her!! She taught me all the coolest things: shopping (in the good section of the mall), how to do my hair (we won't talk about the scar I have from the curling iron), how to wear makeup, funny curse words (my dad didn't like that part), showing us the latest trends (pegging your jeans, hello, priceless advice!) letting me borrow her clothes (I wore the "just another lizard for peace" shirt until it fell apart a few years ago!). There wasn't anything Renee wouldn't do for my brother and I. And now, she has become the rock of the family. We all gather at her house for holidays. She has the most amazing energy about her. Her daughters, who melt my heart whenever I see them, Grace (4) and Brooke (2), are non-stop balls of energy. But somehow, Renee seems to have triple their energy and is always two steps ahead of them. I don't know how she does it. Renee is always ready to hear a good joke, have a good laugh, offer up good ideas or even better advice. She has a natural nurturing ability and always makes sure to take care of the people around her. She's a cousin, and more like a sister to me than I ever realized. I'm so glad she'll be by my side on my wedding day, couldn't imagine it any other way!
One of these dresses is the official bridesmaid dress -- which one is it? You'll have to wait and find out....Now for the shoes? hmmmmm... any ideas?
Hope this helps to give a perspective of where everything is located!
So if you haven't gotten it yet, you will very soon! The save the dates have hit the mail!
Chris T (a.k.a. Isaac)
