Meet My Other Half (MOH). Julia and I have been friends since we met at SUNY Albany 12 years ago. We first crossed paths at PhiDE (a co-ed pre-medical fraternity), where our shared passion for medicine brought us together. When Julia became the president of PhiDE, I had the privilege of serving as her vice president of recruitment. After college, Julia and I moved in together and were roommates for 3 years. She has been a constant source of support over the years especially when I went to nursing school, became a travel nurse, and during CRNA school. I am truly fortunate to have Julia in my life and by my side as we reach life milestones together, including watching her become a wonderful mother to our favorite new girl crew member, Sophia <3. It only seems right to have her on my side as we embark on this new chapter.

Marisa holds a truly special place in my heart, standing out as a one-of-a-kind friend who defied my 'No new friends' motto by entering my life through association with Julia. Due to my territorial nature when it comes to friendships, Marisa managed to effortlessly break through my walls, becoming someone I not only accepted but wholeheartedly wanted to spend time with. What started as a connection through Julia quickly blossomed into a trio of friends, and soon enough, Marisa became a Pretty Huge Deal (PhD) in my life. Marisa is truly an invaluable friend; not only does she possess the uncanny skills of a detective, effortlessly unveiling the details of any scenario or person, but she also takes on the role of an exceptional editor during my graduate school journey. While performing all of these superpowers, she will be expecting her first baby in August while still standing by my side! Definition of a powerhouse <3

I met Romandy in 2017 as freshly graduated nurses. Both of us grew into CVICU nurses working many overnight shifts. While some of those nights were long and challenging, our friendship grew with many laughs and forming future plans. We left St. Peters in February 2020 and traveled together to the sunny state of California. While our original plans consisted of traveling and experiencing the west coast, COVID arrived in March =[. Since we were both far from home and our support systems, we leaned on each other while battling on the frontlines together. This rare experience was truly unique and cemented our friendship forever <3 Returning back to NY, we both bought our own homes, and Romanda became a mother to my favorite nephew, sir Leo Donovan.

My introduction to Stephanie was very comical. While some of us were a little too excited to start their new career as a nurse, others may have been more…reserved (I’ll let you guess who talked too much while the other one just wanted to get through to lunch). We started as new grad nurses, became co-workers, travel buddies, and ended up as roommates. It is easy to say that we embraced quite a few new beginnings, experienced adventures together with our doggo besties Luna and Maze, and we finally settled back to Albany as roomies. We have started some new chapters, while different, they were adjacent in our friendship, and I am so happy that she will be up there with me on my special day. I can’t wait to continue building memories together in this new chapter of life.

Meet Starr, yet another nurse friend met during nursing school! Despite our initial uncertainties about each other, a few shared dark jokes revealed we were meant to become close friends. Starr, the brains of our nursing duo, effortlessly excelled in her studies, while I, with my larger-than-life personality, added a touch of excitement to our academic journey. Beyond the textbooks, our bond deepened over a shared love for our fur babies, Mia and Mittens. Post-graduation, we took the plunge into post-school life together, turning mundane moments into memorable adventures (with some income finally). Our escapades took us to vibrant destinations like Vegas, Nashville, and San Francisco, etching unforgettable experiences in our hearts. From the lecture halls to the real world, Starr and I have navigated this journey hand in hand, making every step a joyous one. Here's to the friend who made nursing school brighter and life after even more extraordinary – my fabulous bridesmaid, Starr!

Nicole, the little sister I always wished for but never had (love you Aj!). A delightful surprise occurred for me when I met Chris; along came this charming, ambitious, and beautiful addition to my life. Nicole perfectly fit the description of the sister I had envisioned in my younger days – young, ambitious, with hair perfect for braiding, and always up for the occasional boy talk! Growing up with a sporty brother, Nicole embodies double trouble – she can throw a ball better than most boys and effortlessly steals the show at gatherings with her phenomenal presence. She's the ideal little sister I've always longed for. Our bond goes beyond family ties; we chat about day-to-day things, I may complain to her about her brother (shh, don't tell!), and we indulge in all things girly together. Here's to the perfect little sister, who has brought joy, laughter, and endless girly moments into my life. I couldn't have asked for a better addition to the family!

It's amusing to reflect on the fact that even after you hastily left our sleepover and ran back across the street, we've managed to remain great friends (haha) – life has its unexpected twists! Kaja holds a special place as one of my oldest friends. We tried skateboarding together, wore flower pants together (not cute), and even lived together as part-time roommates in Albany (since you were here every week). Our families share a close bond, making Kaja feel like a sister to me. When you and Oskar welcomed baby Zoey into our lives, it was a proud Auntie moment for me and just another milestone in our lives that we got to experience together. I cherish our enduring friendship and am grateful for your presence during yet another significant moment in my life. <3

Yet another OG childhood bestie, Kasia is my travel bug extraordinaire. Every adventure embarked on, she’s right there, turning it into an amazing endeavor. Driving cross-country with you was an absolute blast. Even trips to Bainbridge are always filled with laughter—though, God forbid it's thundering outside (you may need to get all the wood haha). Even though you are ONLY one month older, I love that you have always been like an older sister to me and being there as my body guard against all the ...not nice people out there haha. From communion partners to slaying it at Beyonce, becoming travel buddies, dog moms and grad students, I'm thrilled for you to be a part of yet a new life adventure <3 I love you

Meet Danielle! Though she’s a newbie in the bride tribe, she’s already a star in our lifelong friend group. As a fellow Regen-orite in the wedding party, Danielle has quickly become my go-to gal. She’s been there for all the big moments, bringing her infectious energy and making everything extra special. We bond over our shared obsession with The Bachelor/Bachelorette, predicting the drama while sipping wine and enjoying Traveler’s charcuterie board. When it comes to games, watch out—she’s always bringing her A-game and is the one to beat. Even though she got the last rose among my crew, we all know she’s heading straight to the final three. Love you, Danielle!

John (my best man) and I met at SUNY Albany orientation over 14 years ago #KnightsoftheRoundTable! I can't believe he's had to put up with me for this long. We've had our share of ups and downs as best friends, specifically battling it out over the years on NFL Street, RISK, and more recently, Madden. You can probably guess who's usually the victor and who's usually upset. Although I joke and we enjoy busting each other’s cojones, we have always been there for one another. He's the first person I call when I need to talk to someone. He understands when to listen, give me advice, reciprocate ideas, or give it to me straight. He's never afraid to tell me to wake the hell up, and I love that about him. We share many, if not most, interests and hobbies. I like to win and he's ok with losing 😉. As most of you know, we love Sci-Fi and Fantasy as our obsession with Star Wars and Lord of the Rings still continues to grow. John has also recently gotten me into Magic. I'm sure Marta will love this as it will eat into more time that I don't have. John has a strong passion for music. We have attended many shows and festivals together. We also love sports and share a passion for the young, the aggressive, the improving, New York Football Giants, Argggg! More about John though. Most importantly, John is extremely handsome. He is also passionate, caring, kind-hearted, highly motivated, and at times stubborn. He loves and would do anything for his friends and family. He is a planner, a negotiator, has great people skills, and is great at keeping our friends on track (which many of you know is not an easy task). I can confidently say that our friends would not have experienced as many vacations, trips, shows, and lifetime memories without John. I usually help him along the way but get carried away with extravagate Airbnbs. I look forward to our continued friendship and keeping our tradition of traveling and making new memories alive! The Force Is Strong With This One!

Clayton and I met each other at Regeneron in 2017. Our friendship took off when Clayton finally realized he needed talent on his dodgeball team, so he incentivized me to come play on his team with post-game drinks. We were a dynamic duo on the dodgeball court. I stress this point because one time Clayton emailed me about a dodgeball tournament and the subject line read "I bet if we got 8 other OK people we would win the tournament" which he forwarded to several other individuals. I laugh, but dodgeball gave us an avenue to become best friends. A few years later, Clayton and I lived about 6 stone throws away from each other. We had the opportunity to spend many nights out, watch the NFL (Sunday Fundays), play flag football (Odell Bacon Cheeseburger), but most importantly spend quality time together. During the fall and winter, many Saturday nights were ended with a statement "Noon 15". Like clockwork, no texts or calls the next morning, we would show up at the coffee shop between our apartments at 12:15 in preparation for NFL Sunday. Sunday Fundays are near and dear to my heart, and Clayton was of the original crew. We shared many laughs and built many memories during Sunday Fundays. For instance, our zombie apocalypse discussion where we debated weapon of choice. Most people, if given the option, would choose a sniper rifle, automatic weapon, or rocket launcher. Not Clayton. He insisted on hand axes, 6 specifically. Or the controversial conversation with the entire bar, is ranch a solid or a liquid. For those of you who don't know Clayton, he is an unbelievable friend, partner, brother, and son. He got engaged earlier this year and I couldn't be happier for him and Danielle! He prioritizes what is important in life and doesn't sweat the little things. He is trustworthy, reliable, caring, positive, and always a good time. He’s always good for a one liner "like sticking mashed potatoes through a keyhole". He radiates good vibes wherever we are (golf course, vacation, or watching the bachelor/bachelorette). I'm grateful to have him in my life and excited on what we have to come. A wise person once said "At The End Of Day, It's About Who You Want To Share The Golf Cart With."

Matt “Mett” and I met each other back in 2016 playing flag football on the Game Cocks. Our team was rough around the edges and had clashing personalities, but Matt and I immediately hit it off. Unfortunately for the team, that resulted in us being hungover for a “few” of the Sunday morning games. When we decided to create a new flag football team, I was worried this was going to throw our friendship for a loop, but with no hesitation, he agreed. From there it was history. We’ve been playing flag football ever since (The Wall and Sunday Funday). Matt too was of the original Sunday Funday crew and has been a part of countless memories. For those of you who don’t know Matt or aren’t as close with him, he is an amazing friend. He is kind, he is a great listener, he is willing to give advice, he is empathetic and compassionate, and he will go out of his way to care for those he loves. Clayton speaking in a Vin Diesel voice, “We’re Family.” One thing to note, Matt will always show up for you, but he may not be on time. Word of advice, let him know an earlier time #HolmesStandardTime. I must give him some credit though, he has gotten a lot better. Matt and I have somewhat of a similar history that we have also bonded over. We have been able to lean on one another and have had many heart-to-heart conversations. Did I mention he is a great listener, and he is a therapist! Yes ladies, the handsome Matt is single (at least at the time I’m writing this)! Go easy on him though, he is the old man of the group. Although we bust on him for being the oldest in the group, he is an unreal athlete. For Division I college, Matt competed in the 100-meter dash, 400-meter dash, long jump, and went to nationals for the decathlon. Though recent comparisons of his speed and agility being closer to Clayton versus Amon-Ra St Brown have been made. Matt and I have gotten extremely close over the last few years. We look forward to doubling teaming IPAs (DIPA), having some wine while watching the bachelor/bachelorette, being active, getting out on the golf course, but most importantly having quality time. I’m thankful to have him in my wedding party, I can’t wait to celebrate with him! I just hope he doesn’t get the hiccups on the night of the wedding.

Carlin "AKA Ka, AKA Carlos" and I met freshman year of college at SUNY Albany. When it came to having our get togethers, Carlin and I were in charge of getting the party started. I take credit for being the passenger, but Carlin was the true hero freshman and sophomore year "Thanks Evan Dwyer". Our freshman and sophomore year were foundational for our friend group. We spent many days, nights, and weekends getting together, studying for the same courses, going on trips, and playing NFL Street. Carlin is known for the infamous User Juke. Many people reading this will remember the UAlbany vs. UBuffalo competition. Let's just say Carlin has always been a good chugger but does a better job keeping it down now. We also lived together our junior and senior years, what a blast that was! Recent years, we’ve spent a ton of time golfing, watching the games, playing risk, having games nights or just getting together for a beer to decompress. He is a Sunday Funday original and one of my favorite people to watch sporting events with. He is expressive, analytical, and willing to debate even if it is the unpopular opinion. We have also been on many trips, vacations, and to music festivals. Carlin is currently studying to become a Nurse Anesthetist (same class as Marta). Although Marta and Carlin can butt heads from time to time in class, it's been nice having him going through the same extensive and difficult process. Carlin is someone that always shows up, checks in, and wants to make the most of any situation. He is kind, caring, expressive, and goofy. One of the things I cherish most about him is that he isn’t afraid to truly ask you “how” you are doing. When it is the right thing to do, even if it is difficult, he approaches the situation rather than taking the easy way out. He opens himself up to the situation and will truly be there for you. Sometimes he asks tough questions and maybe questions you think you want to bottle up, but deep down it's necessary to work through. I love our friendship and I'm excited for what the future holds for us. Watch out tonight for the “Wink” tonight.

Nick "Biggs" and I met back in 2008 when the height of Kingston news was the Kingston Wiffleball League (KWL). During those years, Biggs was close friends with a lot of friends I was close with, but it took us some time to connect. It wasn’t for a lack of effort or not wanting to connect, but for whatever reason the opportunities didn't align until a few years later. As soon as we got the chance, our friendship was inevitable. Since the early years were geared around sports, it probably had something to do with our eccentric personalities, as we both have a love for the big play. Go big or go home! KWL turned into an opportunity for us to play together in the Hudson Valley Wiffleball League, where we were back-to-back-to-back champions. I remember on the drive home from one of our games, we got a condom to blow up to 6 feet long. Totally his idea. Yearly now, Biggs drives and facilitates the Al Dumont Wiffle Ball Tournament, which has been developed into a fundraiser – CAPS Fund and Mental Health (<3 #44). This year is its 19th year! Biggs puts his heart and soul into this tournament, as he does in his life, with his friends, his family, and his beautiful wife Trista. If there was ever someone you wanted on your side, and go all out for you, it’s Biggs! He is caring, loving, enthusiastic, dedicated, ambitious, and altruistic. He would give his shirt off his back for you, but more importantly, he would make sure you had fun while putting it on. He throws the best parties you could ever attend (Birthdays, German Fests, Halloweens, Christmas’) and balances being the life of the party while doing so. He’s no slouch for a little fun 😉. As you can imagine, we had the time of our lives celebrating a week in Vegas for his wedding #WhatHappensInVegas. I truly love our friendship and respect him so much as a person. I know it takes a lot to do what he does and for all those he does it for. I can’t wait to celebrate with him on the night of the wedding and to celebrate our continued friendship. If you see Biggs tonight, he will be tearing up the dance floor, just don’t get too close unless you want to join the party.

Jason “DuDu, JDu2Sexy, Doobie” has been my longest best friend. We met each other in 4th grade at Myer Elementary School. We went through elementary, middle, and high school together. You know someone is a true friend when they stick with you before and after puberty. Growing up we lived just over a mile away #HURLEY. We spent a lot of time at each other’s homes watching Star Wars, Survivor, playing Yu-Gi-Oh, NBA Live, lightsaber tag, and the drowning game (I promise it's not as bad as it sounds). Prior to college, we'd hang out from sunup to sundown bike riding all over Hurley and Kingston, playing sports, pool hopping, and manhunt. I was truly bummed when I found out we weren’t going to SUNY Albany together and he left me with Dorf. Thankfully he wised up his sophomore year and joined the madness of the Albany crew. We lived together our sophomore and senior year and made many memories in between. Legend has it the "Chicken Monster" still comes out from time to time. After college, we always stayed in contact, and made it a tradition to go on at least one big trip each year. We've been throughout the country, national parks, Europe, and many music festivals / shows. All the while, he lived in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and California. Although it may have been scary, new, or potentially uncomfortable for him, he has been driven to figure out what he wants to do in live no matter the situation. He has sought out alone too many places and schools and weathered the process. It's scary for me to imagine my life without my support system nearby. I admire him for this. It takes a lot of resiliency, hope, and dedication to continue his journey and maintain a friendship many miles apart. DuMond on his outer shell that can be quiet, subtle, and mischievous at times. But don’t let that fool you! There is an unbound energy, spriteliness, and tremendously big heart that’s always waiting to open. He is thoughtful, smart, caring, kind, and a chaotically fun. He is an amazing friend! I’m excited for what our future holds and to celebrate this magical night with him.

Andrzej "AJ ", the brother of the bride, and I met soon after Marta and I started dating in 2012. Although he was kind when we first met, I still had to earn my place with his sister and within his family. I wouldn’t have expected any less from a good brother. As Marta and my relationship grew, he began to welcome me with open arms. He has known Marta and my relationship the longest and has experienced and endured many of our ups and downs over the last 12 years (on and off 10 years). Due to our stubbornness, I can imagine that our relationship wasn’t always easy for AJ, but he always circled us back to the fact that we love each other. A lot of growth has come over the years and I want to truly thank him for sticking it out with us! As for AJ and me, we’ve made countless memories in Brooklyn, Bainbridge, and during family holidays. We’ve bonded over sports, specifically the Mets, and have been to a few games together. Two of which happen to be my favorite games ever. The only time I have ever caught a foul ball and game 1 of the 2015 NLCS (probably the last time the Mets were truly good). AJ and I have also bonded over music, though his taste, knowledge, and style far surpass mine. AJ is always up for a board/team game and is sneaky good. Him and his significant other, Malia, are a dynamic duo (watch out!). AJ is kind, caring, charming, and has a great sense of humor. He understands the balance of when to express his opinion or when to go with the flow (something I continue to learn from him). He has been a good friend and is someone that I hope to continue to grow closer with in the future. I’m extremely excited to be able to call him my brother. I couldn't have asked for a better addition to the family!

Anthony (AJ), my Partner In Crime “PIC”, and I met at SUNY Albany orientation over 14 years ago #KnightsoftheRoundTable! We became PICs due to our late-night festivities and shenanigans. I wish we still had the picture from when we created a sculpture in the State quad common space. The tables and chairs must have towered 16ft high. As many of you know and I’ve mentioned before in these write ups, our freshman and sophomore year were foundational for our friend group. We spent most of our freshman year in AJ and Johns suite on State quad making countless memories. Our freshman year was the UAlbany vs. UBuffalo competition on Endicott turf. The events came down to a tie breaker where AJ and I took down DAS BOOT in record time. After freshman year, we lived together on Colonial Quad, Madison Ave., and then Ontario St. We’ve bonded over; Star Wars, LOTR, Risk, Football, Sports, Music, but most importantly, quality time. We’ve had the chance to experience different vacations and music festivals. We also lived together from 2016 to 2018 on 45 Pine Wood Ave. All of which helped us grow as close as we are today. AJ balances being a strong competitor as an athlete while understanding the importance of being expressive through his artistic side. He is passionate, caring, loving, and extremely charismatic. He is a great listener and remembers details that are important to his friends and family (their experiences, stories, and events). He does this better than anyone I know, as he makes sure to follow up about these topics. He exemplifies a true attention for those he loves and passionately wears his heart on his sleeve for these individuals. Although life can be busy at times, and we don’t always see each other, AJ is the type of true friend you never feel apart from. Maybe in distance but never in heart. I love our friendship and I'm excited to celebrate this night with him and to celebrate for our future.

Ryan, AKA Dorf, and I met back when we were 13 years old. Our friendship started out by bonding over baseball, having a true love for the game, and a camaraderie on the field. For Kingston, we played modified, JV, and Varsity together. During the summers we played Babe Ruth All Stars, Jr. and Sr. Legion (Post 150), and tournament travel teams. We made unbelievable memories playing and traveling for baseball. We won many games, awards, tournaments, and district/state championships. If we weren’t playing baseball together, we were playing other sports, watching sports, playing yard games/activities, or venturing off into the woods. Senior year we had enough credits to get out of school at 11:30am. We’d head straight to the YMCA to play basketball, go to Dorf’s house to eat popcorn chicken and a full case of Oreo’s, play NBA 2K or MLB The Show, and then go to varsity baseball practice. We tried our best to keep out of trouble, but that didn’t always work. One night we thought it would be a good idea to go streaking which resulted in us getting poison ivy EVERYWHERE. When it came time for college, we both landed on SUNY Albany, which I couldn’t have been more ecstatic about. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to start that journey with. We lived together freshman year on Indian Quad, sophomore year on Colonial Quad, and then again during our senior year on Ontario. After college we made it a priority to travel to new places and attend music festivals / concerts. We both share a love for the RHCP and have traveled all over the country to see them play (amongst many other bands). Ryan has a musical depth unlike anyone I know. He can sing the lyrics to almost any song. Most recently I’m reminded of a night, on a San Diego beach, watching Dorf dance around the fire pit signing Venice Queen. He is extremely caring, passionate, and expressive in life, with his friends, with his family, while playing sports, and while listening to music. Growing up, he was the brother that I never had. Like brothers we are competitive, have gotten under each other’s skin, experienced bumps in the road, but always find our way back to how much we love and care about each other! I'm excited to celebrate this night with him and to celebrate for our future.