Kindergarten Is Over

When I realized Laila would be graduating kindergarten, a picture flashed in my mind. One I took years ago. Things weren't exactly as expected, she didn't wear a cap and gown, but I know one day she will. She'll be 18 year old, walking down the aisle to grab her diploma, and these are going to be the images flashing in my head:

Now, school's out for summer and it's still hard to believe my baby has officially been promoted to first grade. I must admit, I swore I wouldn't get choked up at her graduation ceremony, but when they finished, I cried like a baby. I have never been so proud in my whole life. Thinking back to when I found out I was pregnant, I prepared the best I could for her to crawl, walk, and talk. Somehow, someway, it slipped my mind that she would eventually be growing into a beautiful little girl, and eventually, a woman.

This school year hasn't exactly been easy on anyone. We originally signed Laila up to go to a charter school here in town, focusing more on the social learning than the strict academics. She seemed to be doing well even though I didn't like her teacher. Just days after her first day of school, her teacher was sending notes and scolding Laila for using the bathroom too much. Little did we know then, it wasn't her fault. After finding out she is a type 1 diabetic, things changed drastically. Not only was I in charger of her every minute of every day at home, I had to be responsible for her while she was at school, too. The principal refused to even consider training anyone on the staff to help in case of emergency, and there was no plan to hire a nurse. I cried the whole way home from dropping her off at school each morning, praying my baby would be okay until lunch time when I would drive to the office to give her insulin.

I couldn't handle it, the mere thought of her dropping like a fly and no one being trained to help her was too much. I went and visited the public school district and met with the health director. That next day I had a meeting set up with Santa Rosa Elementary school: the nurse, principal, teacher, and the health director. Still to this day I can hardly express my gratitude to these wonderful people for how they have helped me transition into the life of a mother to a diabetic. Knowing there was a registered nurse available at all times, every day, was almost unbelievable! The words "chronic illness", "blood glucose levels" and "novalog" were still fluttering through my head, but at least I had time to digress. Knowing she was safe at school was the first step in the right direction.

She's had no problems making friends, in fact, her "buddy" Kaytlyn, is her best friend. They have such an amazing relationship, Kaytlyn has even mastered checking Laila's sugar and giving her insulin in case of an emergency. I think Laila's so comfortable with it now she just has Kaytlyn give her her shots just for giggles, we all know Laila can do them just fine on her own. The two of them have blossomed so much in the past few months, it's hard to think they've only known each other a few months. Sharing the same birthday is just the beginning of the things they have in common, it's so great to know Diabetes is the last thing on Kaytlyn's mind when she thinks of Laila. Watching their friendship gives me so much hope for the future.

Laila's grades are outstanding, her report cards have been great! She's enjoyed ballet and tap dance this year, and managed to keep her grades where they need to be. Each day, reaching into her backpack and revealing a new surprise has been the highlight of my afternoons. Seeing right before my eyes the way she is growing, exploring, learning, it's truly amazing. I'm not prepared for prom, science projects, reports, and marching band, but I am prepared to catch her whenever she falls. I'm ready to help her when she stumbles, and be her biggest fan. Every day she's asking questions, telling stories, reading books, and there are times I think she might just burst if she doesn't stop talking, but she's got her whole life ahead of her, and I know it'll be a great one. She's set the bar high, the standards she has for herself are amazing, her brother and sister are going to have a lot to live up to. Laila is a great example for them, they have a fantastic role mode. So it's true,-school's out for summer-but some things will never change: she'll never stop learning, and she'll always be my baby girl.

May Photo Challenge, Day 24

Oh, geez. Another photo challenge day. Thankfully it's an easy one, and this thing is almost over. Whew.

Day 24- A picture of your favorite clothing store...

Duh. If you know me, you know this is a given. I practically lived at that store before I had kids, and even now, that's the only place I can every find anything comfortable that doesn't look like a mumu.



Two Toofers!

Yesterday, so my surprise, I found Lil D now has a second tooth! I just posted about his first popping through on Thursday, and here I am posting about number two. How exciting!
I do find myself feeling bittersweet, I love to see him grow and change, he's no longer a baby but turning into a handsome little boy. Watching him crawl, stand, cruise, and now bite with those chompers, it's sad knowing he's my last baby and this will be long behind us before I realize it.

He's still sleeping well, though his fever has spiked a few times since yesterday. I've been giving him tylenol to help keep it down, and he seems to be handling the pain ok. I feel terrible when I see him rubbing his face and knowing there isn't much else I can do for him. Baby orjal makes him cry, and teething rings are obsolete, so we just keep plugging along the best we know how.

May Photo Challenge, Day 23

Warning: This post is going to contain profanity!

Day 23- A picture of a word you use a lot...

I cuss like a sailor, and I'm proud of it. Damn it.



May Photo Challenge, Day 22

This one was difficult, I don't often take photos of what I cook. I cook every day for my family, so I don't think there's anythings spectacular about what I make, but I did find this photo stored away on my computer from a while ago. It'll have to do.

Day 22- A picture of a meal you created...

This was delicious, to say the least. I created a mushroom strognaff sauce and put it over buttered bowtie noodles, served with warm cheese fulled crescent rolls. Yum.



May Photo Challenge, Day 21

I think I've done this already for my journal jar, but in case you missed it, here it is.

Day 21- A picture of your favorite food...

Mushrooms. I love them any flavor, in any dish. The only way I don't like them is raw.



A Spoonful of Sugar...

Saturday was Laila's very first dance recital! I am such a proud mommy, I can't help but tell everyone how gorgeous she was. I must admit, I was a bit skeptical, all the money and hours poured into this season seemed like it would never pay off, but seeing her up on stage dancing around, she was just perfect. I couldn't be more proud of her! Here are a few of my favorite snap-shots from the rehersal (no filming or photography at the recital).

Laila and her best friend, Kaytlyn

My sweet baby!

Laila and Kaytlyn, so sweet!

My baby all grown up!

First Tooth

Finally, it's here! Dustin Jr. has his first tooth! This post is a couple days late, but I've been busy. Thursday afternoon is when it finally cut through, and I'm hoping the second one follows soon. I'm pleased to report he's still sleeping well and hasn't been overly fussy, just a touch of a fever. The tooth is way too tiny to snap a picture of, but here's my handsome little man anyway.

May Photo Challenge, Day 20

This is not exactly what I'm supposed to put for today, but I don't meet the requirements. Lucky for me, they made an exception to the rule, so I'll go with that.

Day 20- A picture of an animal that you want...

I'd take any one of those puppies! How adorable! We talk often of getting a puppy, but honestly, it's more than I can handle right now. I'd rather admit that then get a puppy I couldn't take care of. Maybe one day, but not today.



May Photo Challenge, Day 19

I missed a day, and I apologize. Well, not really. I'm getting burnt out on this challenge, it's not nearly as fun as the previous one. Anyway, here's yesterday.

Day 19- A picture of your favorite cartoon character...

She's beautiful, loves to read, and is the most unassuming person I've ever seen. I love princess Belle!



May Photo Challenge, Day 18

This is an easy one, but frustrating. Last night, I had to go to the store to buy a new meter for Laila because her lancing device broke. When I got home, I realized I bought the one with the new lancing device in it, and today, I had to go back. I had to search through many boxes to find one with the old lancing device in it, and finally, I found one. Thank goodness! Not my idea of a good time, but all is well that ends well.

Day 18- A picture of the last thing you bought...



May Photo Challenge, Day 17

This one should have been easy, considering I don't binge often on candy and junk food, but it was a lot harder than I thought. I did, however, make a decision that I'm happy with. Now, the only thing missing here is a Coca-Cola.

Day 17- A picture of your favorite candy...



May Photo Challenge, Day 16

Well, this is an interisting one. I have no idea what to put, I don't have many pictures of myself that are full body shots, and I'd like to keep it that way. I suppose I can find someone else to model for me. Thanks, Google.

Day 16- A picture of your favorite outfit...

Any varation of this would suit me just fine. Jeans, a tank top, and I'm set. I'd even take a polo shirt or sweats. I just love to be comfortable, I don't care what I've got on, or  how it looks to other people. If I'm not comfortable, than I'm not happy. If momma ain't happy, nobody's happy.



May Photo Challenge, Day 15

This one is easy, and doesn't really require much of an explaination. Thank goodness, because I'm exhausted this morning!

Day 15- A picture of your zodiac sign...



May Photo Challenge, Day 14

This was a tough choice, considering I don't like to eat out often. I went out on a limb here when I made my choice, but I'm sticking with it.

Day 14- A picture of your favorite fast food place...

I suppose this all depends on your definition of "fast food". Chipotle isn't a typical drive-through, artery clogging, greasy joint you normally think of when you mention fast food, but it's definitally good food, and pretty fast. It's not a sit-down restaurant, no one comes to take your order, refills your drink, or takes your dirty dishes away, so I consider this to be fast food. Who says good food fast has to be ordered through a speaker box and picked up at a window?



May Photo Challenge, Day 13

Today, I had to make a decision. When I chose this photo, I wasn't sure exactly how to approach the situation, but I did my best. I made a fair, clear choice. To me, there was no other option.

Day 13- A picture of your best friend(s)...

I was always a firm believe the only man I would ever need in my life is my daddy. Then I met Dustin. He has filled a spot in my heart that I never knew was empty. My realtionship with both my dad and Dustin are very important to me, in different ways. I have grown up, moved on, and made my own life, but my dad is still a very big part of it. My husband, he's so understanding about my relationship with my dad. The respect they have for each other because of their respect for me is heartwarming. It's really amazing how these two men have turned my dreams into reality. They listen, and I mean really listen, when I need someone to talk to. They are passionate about the things I love, and they are my biggest fans, supportive until the very end. To choose anyone else to fill the big shoes of a "best friend" would be foolish. Friends move away, lose touch, or grow apart all the time. These are the friends I know will be by my side forever. I love you guys.



May Photo Challenge, Day 12

I'm a fan of a lot of things- reading, movies, television, cooking, cleaning- but a celebrity? Seriously? Sometimes I wonder who comes up with this junk, yet it keeps me coming back. So, I did my best to choose someone I look up to, not someone who makes millions just by breathing oxygen on a movie set.

Day 12- A picture of your favorite celebrity...

I've watch a few of her shows, I really enjoyed watching her on the Worst Cooks in America, 2 victories in a row is awesome! She's an amazing chef, and awesome person. Anne Burell isn't someone you see constantly on the red carpet, or in the media for trashy behavior. Where I did see her-Chopped on the Food Network, competing for a charity. When I heard what charity she was competing for, it brought tears to my eyes. JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) is always in need of funds, there's so much more to learn, each day brings us closer to a cure. Anne's nephew is a diabetic, and only a child. Like Laila, he will live with this chronic illness for the rest of his life, and she saw the opportunity to do something good. If I had to pick someone to be my favorite, at least it's someone I look up to.



2 Week Follow-up

It's hard to believe that two weeks have passed since Little D was in surgery to detether his spinal cord. It has been a scary time for us, but his recovery is going so smoothly, I can't complain. He has been medication free since we left the hospital, only taking over the counter acetaminophen for the first few days.


Yesterday, Dustin Jr. had a follow-up appointment with a nurse practitioner, the same one who assisted with the surgery. I was nervous, to say the least, that his incision wasn't healing properly or I was getting it too wet with his sponge baths. She took a peek and exclaimed it was better than even expected! All the glue was gone and the mild redness is just irritation from the stitches, which will eventually go away as they dissolve. We are free to give him a regular bath, and his outdoor activity no longer needs to stay limited. I was in tears, I was so happy to see his forward progress and to hear what a great job we're doing.


Before the surgery, Little D was starting to pull to a standing position, but not for long. I never noticed how quickly he would fall back down, until now. I was watching him in the waiting room yesterday, and right before my eyes, he took steps! He was holding onto a bench, and for the first time, he was cruising! I do my best not to compare my kids to others, or each other, but it's hard. When you're filling out a baby book and the spaces are still blank months after your other children's were filled in. I have had a constant worry in the back of my mind, this boy of mine has given me a run for my money since my pregnancy!

Today, he's been cruising down the side of the couch like a champ, a seasoned pro! He makes me so proud. I don't care that he's not walking at 10 months, or that he doesn't have any teeth yet. I waited a lifetime for my prince to come, I can wait a few more months before he grows up.

May Photo Challenge, Day 11

I never seem to have a straight answer when asked what my favorite anything is, except movie, but that's not going to help me here! I spent a little time thinking about the zoo, what's my favorite exhibit-what can I go and never leave without visiting? This is what I came up with, and Jessica, I know you're smiling right now!

Day 11- A picture of your favorite animal...

Look at that baby. Now, look at that baby's mom-hair being pulled, cheek being squeezed, all while being chewed on. No matter what the animal, when you're a mom, you're a mom. Any woman can bore children, but it takes a real woman to be a mother-a mom. Every time I visit the zoo, I make sure to take my time by the orangutans, they're so inspirational. My eyes well up with tears every time I'm there, something about watching them is so moving, it melts my heart. I think, if I had to choose, this would be my favorite animal.

May Photo Challenge, Day 10

This one took a bit of thinking, and definitely some creativity. I wasn't sure what I could possibly come up with to entertain you all, so I chose something I found fun, and had my gorgeous girls model it for you!

Day 10- A picture of a random item you own...

Check out those awesome popcorn containers! I chuckled to myself when I bought them, swearing I would use them one day. Unfortunately, my hands are a bit big for the bottom of those containers, but they appear to be perfect size for my girls! Even better luck, there's two-one for each of my beauties!



May Photo Challenge, Day 9

This was very difficult for me, on a number of levels. Finding a photo was my first hurdle, and actually scanning it was the second. It took longer than I expected to convince myself I wasn't scanning a photo of a ghost, and now, here I sit, waiting to post it. It isn't that I don't want to share, but it's the thought of exposing myself. I have so few pictures of my mom, the ones I do have, I hold tight to my heart.

Day 9- A picture of you and your mother...

Unfortunately, this is one of just a handful. I don't have much to say about this, it is what it is. I can only treasure it and remember why I loved her.

May Photo Challenge, Day 8

I wasn't exactly sure what this meant, but I gave it a shot.

Day 8- A picture of a plant/tree/flower...

If I remember correctly, the last photo challenge asked for my favorite flower, so this time I chose something else-a palm tree! I actually have one tattooed on my ankle, it was my dream to see a palm tree in person, to smell the ocean and feel the breeze on my skin.



Mother's Day

Every year, Mother's day is new, different, uncertain. Each year brings surprises-babies being born, jobs changing, kids growing, friendships being made-it's a whirlwind I will never be prepared for. When I think of my mother, my memories are faint and few, and my heart is saddened. Losing her when I was young sent me into a downward spiral-I deliberately chose the path I knew was wrong because I knew she wasn't there to tell me no. Now that I'm a mother of my own, I choose the path I think she would have taken herself, she's one of my greatest inspirations.

When I first became a mother, nearly 6 years ago, I had no idea what life held in store for me. I knew about the sleepless nights, I was prepared for the dirty diapers and the late night teething pain. I read every book I could get my hands on, I talked to my sisters and friends, I thought I was ready. What I wasn't prepared for were the sleepless nights I would spend by choice, sitting on the floor next to my child's bed, watching them dream of sweets and sugar. I never pictured myself folding laundry in all shapes and sizes, smiling inside as I remember when my oldest was just a baby. No one could have told me it would be possible to love someone so much it hurt, it seemed impossible to feel so strongly about another human before they even existed.

After having Laila, I knew motherhood was exactly what I needed in my life. My life was turned upside down, I had gained weight that I still haven't lost, I stopped buying makeup and found myself saving my pennies to purchase frilly, pretty dresses instead. I no longer smelled like perfume, but spit-up and baby food. I traded in my flat iron and hair dryer for a stack of ponytail holders, and there were days I was lucky to leave the house. Somehow, none of this mattered to me, as long as I could see my baby smile. The first time I heard an I love you, I thought the world might come to a screeching halt. Finally, I had known my hard work was paying off. Looking at her now, she's turning into such a gorgeous little girl, and eventually a woman, and I know I've made the right choices. Now, nearly 6 years later, I juggle more than just a kindergarten child and her activities-I handle a diabetic little girl that needs me every step of the way. When I agreed to be a mom, I didn't sign up for this, these are the stories you read, the movies you watch, not the life I wanted, but it's the life I love.

Once I found out about Kenadi, I was surprised, happy, and sad all at the same time. I never pictured myself as a mother, and having one child was more than I could handle at times. I found myself scared, angry, and unhappy through much of my pregnancy. It wasn't new anymore, it wasn't the first time, and therefor, less exciting. The doctor appointments became routine, the desire wasn't there, I was convinced no one could compare to the life I created when Laila was born, and a huge part of me hated myself for it. Honestly, up until the moment she was placed on my chest and in my arms, I wasn't sure this was the right decision. Instantly, everything changed, and I felt like she was sent here just for me. A little mini-me was born, and she melts my heart every day. Her free spirit brightens my whole world when I'm down, I don't know where I would be today without her in my life.

My dreams of having a son were quickly vanishing the longer we waited to have another child. Dustin and I decided two was more than enough, and even though we didn't have a son, we were content. One day, I made the decision for the both of us that we would give it one more shot. The day the ultrasound tech confirmed we were having a son was one of the happiest days of my life. Not only was our little family complete, I was able to fulfill one of my husband's dreams, to carry along his name through his son. Seeing him now, through the struggles we have already endured, is breathtaking. I can hardly believe a baby so small, so fragile, has come so far. He gives me hope, strength, and faith I never knew existed. With him, I pull from the depths of my soul, and I know this is what life is all about.

Last night, I tucked each of my kids into bed, and I smiled. I have created this, I am a mother, they are each my precious gifts. I hold their lives in the palm of my hand, there has never been a responsibility greater, and a bigger reward at the end of every trying day. The road to contentment hasn't been easy, it's been long and difficult, but worth every minute, and every, "I love you". My dear, sweet children, I love you more than anything in this world. Thank you for being mine.

May Photo Challenge, Day 7

This was simple, and we all know how much I like simple!

Day 7- A picture of the background thats on your laptop/desktop...

This is a picture of my husband and my son. Two of a kind, that's plain to see, and they sure are handsome! Watching the two of them interact is the sweetest thing, they are so much alike it just makes my heart melt. Seeing Dustin interact with Laila and Kenadi is one thing, but seeing him with his son, his own "Junior", is so very different. This picture captures the very essence of their relationship, and I can only pray it continues to grow and blossom as they each grow older. I never thought I'd be able to love someone like I love Dustin, and having a child changed that. Now, I can spread my love amongst them, and each in a different way. I love my boys to pieces, and it just keeps getting better and better.



Through the Eyes of a Child

This past Christmas, Kenadi received a vtech Kidzoom camera, and it's one of the best investments we've ever made! I considered giving her my old camera, but this one is much more fun! Games, photo editing, and neat sounds to keep her entertained, she takes it all over with her. I dumped over 800 pictures onto my computer tonight, and though I'm sure you'd like to see hundreds of blurry shots of the carpet or our family, I selected a few of my favorites. I hope you enjoy them!

When I think of the world through a child's eyes, this is what I expected to see. Granted, I did only choose a handful, I think they're pretty great. Maybe I have a future photographer, or maybe I just have some great memories.

May Photo Challenge, Day 6

Finding a photo to fit today wasn't easy, though I have had a general idea of this since I was little. All that's missing here is the white picket fence.

Day 6- A picture of your dream house...

I grew up in a nice house, it was always big enough for everyone no matter who was around. It was clean, and we never wanted for much. We didn't have a housekeeper, the most expensive furniture, or the newest game system, but everyone always wanted to hang out at our place. You could feel the love, the walls were always bursting at the seams with laughter, and that's what I want for my family, my children. This house is just an example of the beautiful home I hope to one day have for my family. I must admit, the appeal of a two story house, flush with windows galore, a wrap around porch and gorgeous front door is all I ever wanted when I was growing up. I always dreamed having the "best" of everything would make us the best, but I now know all these things are just things, and what I had was the best. Even now, I don't have a lush, green yard, I have rocks and dirt-but my kids can still play. I don't have a wrap around porch-but my kids can sit in the driveway or play on the sidewalk. The size of our house doesn't matter, it's the laughter that rings through the air, the smell of cookies baking in the oven, and the toys strewn about the living room. That's what makes a house a home, and that's what makes me happy. My dream house? I think I'm already in it.



Catch Up

So, I'll admit, I've been horrible about keeping up with Dustin's first year, but can you blame me? 3 kids, 1 in school full time and dance, 1 starting preschool in a few weeks, and another that just had surgery, what a mess! Now that little D is home safe and sound, I deicded to take a moment and reflect on how blessed we are, and how much has really been going on in our lives.

During his hospital stay, Dustin Jr. turned 9 months. I took a few photos of him with my phone while he was in there, but nothing I'm wanting to look at right now. It was a rough couple of days, watching him drift in and out of consciousness, praying the incision didn't leak, and wondering if he was in pain. The nights were the hardest, I was with him alone, and the whimpering during his sleep was heartbreaking. At the time, I don't think it fully hit me what was happening, I sort of put on this suit of armor that no one could break through-I needed to be strong for my son. I was able to sit and blog about it, answer dozens of phone calls and messages, and it never seemed to phase me. Now that it's over, I'm a mess. I worry constantly about his back, if he's in pain, if I'm taking care of it properly, and there's never a moment I don't thank God he's doing as well as he is. He's still not walking, or even cruising, but he's pulling up on the furniture, and he's standing much longer than before his surgery. He's eating almost all table food, and heaven forbid anyone tries to feed him! I'm pleased to report he's sleeping 10-12 hours a night, which is nothing new, but always nice. Here are a few photos I took of him today:

Kenadi is simply Boo Boo. That little girl, there's never a dull moment with her. She's going to start a preschool summer program this fall. I've been going back and forth on whether or not to enroll her, she's going to be 3 in September, which is earlier than I put Laila in, but I feel she needs the interaction with the other kids. This will give her something to do twice a week that's just for her, and will also give her a break from us. As much as I love my children, I truly believe they need their own time, their own activities, and they need a break from me as much as I need a break from them. I am meeting with her preschool teacher today, Ms. Jen, who was Laila's teacher too. Laila loves her to death and still talks about her, I know I have nothing to worry about other than my baby growing up too fast.

I don't even know what to say about Laila. She's one amazing little girl these days. Kindergarten is over this month, and I'm not sure I'm cut out for that kind of pressure! She's excelling in her testing, her scores were almost double the state requirements for the end of the year at her third testing, I'm excited to see what her final test scores come out to. Her report card was amazing, she's so smart, she even teaches me things! She's finishing up the year in dance, her recital is coming up on May 21, her class is dancing tap to "A Spoonful of Sugar". Her costume is outrageous, and that's not just the price. It's adorable, I can't wait to have some photos taken of her in it, once the recial is over and I don't have to worry about damaging it, I'm going to take her out on location and have my favorite photographer snap a few of her in it. I know she'll look darling, I can hardly wait to see the show. We have taken a short break from her diabetes blog to work on some things at home and school, she's been really busy and doesn't want to sit and blog, and I refuse to make her. Maybe once things slow down she'll pick it back up again. It's still hard to believe sometimes I'm the mother of a diabetic, and this is just the beginning of a lifetime, but I know we can handle it. Together, that little girl and I are unstoppable.

I think that about brings me up to date on the kiddos. Dustin and I are just a month away from celebrating our 5 year wedding anniversary and couldn't be happier. It's been a short and long five years, depending on who you ask! I know the road hasn't been easy, but we've made it this far. I can't imagine living through the things I have without him by my side, my life is complete, and he's been there through it all. I'm sure I tell him more than enough, but I love him. Every fiber of my being is poured into the love I have for him. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with him, these 5 years are just a drop in the bucket.

May Photo Challenge, Day 5

Ahh, the sweetness of an easy photo. Makes my morning nice and simple.

Day 5- A picture of your favorite board game...

Clue. Not just any version of this classic game will do, but the old 1972 version is the best. The colors are vibrant, the cards are realistic, and the weapons were heavy duty. No way I'd want someone throwing the candlestick at the back of MY head!



May Photo Challenge, Day 4

Another difficult photo to choose, I have spent hours thinking about this one. More like days, really. How do you pick someone and not hurt anyone else's feelings? Take it as a grain of salt, because this guy outnumbers them all.

Day 4- A picture of a person you would want to be on a deserted island with...

Don't be fooled, my first, gut instint was to choosemy husband, but that's not entirely fair. My next gut instinct was to choose someone of this nature:

Because honestly, who wouldn't want to be stuck with THAT on a deserted island?! But then I came to my senses and realized he may be a giant loser, and I could end up miserable. So, I did a little more thinking, and thought maybe I would choose someone more like this:

Yes, that's a rocket scientist! I figured if he was really that smart, maybe he could find a way to blast me off that island and back to reality. Then I realized that I have a huge problem with getting my hopes up and if it didn't work out, I'd be devastated, and it probably wouldn't be worth my time anyway. After careful consideration, including my need for adult interaction, my love of laughter and having a good time, and companionship, this person fits the bill perfectly:

Never a dull moment when he's around, my brother, Mark, is who I would choose. He's got it all, and then some. He can sing, dance, act, and tell jokes like no one I've ever met. He can draw, sculpt, paint, you name it. He's also smart, experienced, and has a lot of the same interests as me. What a perfect match we make. Love you gigga tons, Bro.