Once upon a time, I had a friend named Lisa. We met in fourth grade, practically lived at each other's houses in high school, and kept in touch even when she moved out of state. Years later, when we were both 22, she returned to Georgia and moved in with me.
In those days, I worked and played at Cowboy's Dance Hall. Lisa scoffed at country dancing, but she humored me and came along. I had lots of friends and dance partners. One of them was a guy named Eric, who looked a little bit like Toby Keith. Eventually Lisa became a convert and loved country dancing; all three of us ended being part of a line-dance team! Here we are performing at Six Flags...(click to enlarge)
One evening at Cowboys, I introduced Lisa to Eric. I don't remember how long it took (because Eric was kind of shy), but eventually Eric asked Lisa to go out with him. She didn't know if she wanted to go, but I--in my single-gal wisdom--encouraged her to say yes because, "at least it's a free meal!" Aaah, the romance of it all. 
But actually, there ended up being plenty of romance. If I remember correctly, Eric cooked dinner, and Lisa hung out at his apartment W-A-Y longer that was necessary for the aforementioned free meal. They were pretty much inseparable after that. That first date was in March of 1996.
About two & a 1/2 years later, they were married. I was honored by being in their wedding.
I'd like to think I was instrumental in their happily-ever-after story, but they returned the favor. Almost seven years after Lisa & Eric were married, I married Ken--one of Eric's friends since 9th grade. 
Life is busy, and we don't all see each other as often as we'd like, but I sure am blessed to call Lisa and Eric friends. In fact, they aren't just friends--they're family.
Happy Birthday, Eric! Here's to another 40 years!
Love ya,
"JamieLee"
and going strong 10 years later!
