Now with eaglesspirit safely nestled in her new dorm at college, away from home, and with my 13thleprechaun on the verge of getting her first car, I want to take a moment and share my thoughts on these girls.

I met Shizu first - in mid '03 on fanfiction.net. We met by way of our stories, interacted, e-mailed, IM'd about a year later, had some phone calls in '05, then met that summer. We have had our moments of glee, stupidity, and angst, but Shizu has been faithful and honest with me. Now she's 20 and I feel a little like an older sister, cautioning my younger siblings and giving them advice about things they haven't come across yet. I hope Shizu doesn't mind me talking about her like this, but she really has been invaluable and I cherish every second with her. She has the skills to both amuse and amaze a nation, I promise you that.

Tiffany I met near the end of '04, shortly after I moved from Indiana to Florida. We got together at a church function and hit it off right away. Most people already know Tiff's story of her life at home, and it's sad, but she's gotten stronger because of it. Now four years later she has gained independence and is out of the house doing what God wills her to do. I firmly believe she will be the clay in His hands to be shaped into what He desires most of her, and I couldn't be more proud.

I am sincerely very proud of my two closest friends and what they've been through over the years. They have pushed, pulled and withstood every test - more than I could ever do. I do envy their courage as I have little compared to them. My beloveds, I pray you both be safe and strong in this new year ahead of you. Thank you for choosing me to be your confidant and friend. I love you both very much.