Kristin's grad school roommate whom Kristin also named "Mom" as Despina always took care of Kristin and the two fought like an old married couple or a mother/daughter. Despina is a Greek from the South of the United States-she doesn't know how to put money in parking meters, and her biggest fear is getting kidnapped-a perfect candidate for a maid of honor! She is also talented in getting parties started, listening when you need it, and making everyone feel included. I would have never survived Grad school without Despina, and thus would not be where I am today without her support, encouragement, and selflessness.

Jose's best friend, also a Mexican American. Jose and Julio have bonded over their love of motors, chicks, and Mexican food/music/beer. Their love grew with motorcycles and has upgraded to a more family friendly 4x4 Polaris Razors. And now with Julio Jr, they can share their love for fixing things over a cold beer/bottle and some good food.

Krissie-the nicest person you will ever meet, half Danish/half Texan turned Virginian. Krissie and I met at JMU and quickly became best friends and roommates for 3 years, which was difficult for others: both tall blondes with similar names. Our routine at night involved ordering a lot of campus cookies or baking some up ourselves, late night dancing in our PJs, and deep life discussions about our future dreams. Every night felt like a sleepover! We laughed, we cried, and we shared a lot of our college "firsts" together-first "breakups", first "drunk bus experience", etc. Krissie through the years has always remained that same SPARKLY person I met Freshman year. I fully envision our future children playing while we bake cookies and have dance parties like the old days.

One of Jose's brothers, Luis resides in Guadalajara with his wife Zulma and their two children. Luis is a bit more fancy and more refined than Jose- he and his wife both own their own businesses and when not working love traveling throughout Mexico for vacation. Luis only knows cuss words in English, which Kristin can relate to.

Caitlin and I we were the most BASIC of all the girls in Grad school (self-proclaimed)-we even had our own "local" mugs at the local bar. Caitlin, not only has the best fashion sense of any of my friends, but also the best taste in food/drinks and knows where to find the party. But one on one- Caitlin is the sweetest, down-to-earth Southerner I've ever met. I always feel myself and at home around her.

Angel, Jose's little brother is like a younger blonde version of Jose. He is currently residing in Mexico City, working for Amazon. He enjoys riding his new motorcycle and visiting with his friends. He is short tempered yet gentle and for some reason the kids in the family are drawn to him as he has a special patience and heart in caring for them.

I met Sam during my OT contract in Idaho. We instantly had a connection over good music, holistic health, and the outdoors. I was in awe of her amazing MOM powers and her ability to be so CHILL and FUN with a newborn in tote, we took that kid flying, camping, and even snuck him in a bar in Jackson Hole. Pocatello and Blackfoot would have been so lonely without Sam and her family, they made my time there memorable.

Childhood friends, all grown up! Stephanie was the first friend I made when we moved into the neighborhood when I was 10 years old. I used to fall asleep on the floor listening to her play harp. Followed by family game nights, the Burcham's attempts at teaching me to cook and play tennis, frat parties in college, Game of Throne nights and chasing chickens on the farm, to now Arizona exploring. We have been friends over half of our lives-crazy!