Happy 40th to Denise

My girlfriend Denise whom I have known most of my life recently turned 40 here is my speech for her 40th Birthday....


I will never forget the day that I heard that Denny was pregnant with Reuben it was 9 11. Vera had just phoned to confirm my pregnancy with Andrew and shared the news. It was a surreal day. My parents were an ocean away, the news permeated every channel there was no escaping it. I remember talking to Denise that day, she was shocked beyond belief that she was pregnant it wasn’t something expected. I believe gin and tonic might have been consumed. We talked with trepidation about what we kind of world we were bringing these children into. It was a day of joy so intertwined with fear and heartache. I look back 7 years later and in our sons I see these amazing young boys they have become. They are so different, they don’t spend a lot of time together, but when they get together they click. We have always said they are like two old souls. I believe this stems from 2 generations of friendship that started over 35 years ago with our parents. I take solace in knowing that whatever happens in this world that our children will always have each other…like we did. It is the kind of friendship that doesn’t need to be forced, the kind where you can have a difference of opinions or shared fuck you’s and end the evening with a hug. The kind of friendship that regardless of the mistakes you make they will always be there. It is family.
Family is a funny thing. It is what you make it. Sometimes it is implanted in you and the generations that surround you as a child. Sometimes it comes with the saying of vows in front of your loved ones connecting two families in marriage. Sometimes it just happens… there is no rhyme or reason and when you try to look back and remember the first time that person entered your life you can’t because they were always there. Denny’s presence in my life has come with so much. The memories I have are boundless. Some come with the kind of laughter the kind that only someone who was there can truly appreciate. Some come with tears, heartache and the support that doesn’t need to be spoken or asked for. Some come with the frustration and challenges that different opinions, priorities and beliefs bring. But all come with a warmness and strength in knowing that no matter where I go, the celebrations and challenges I will face down the road I will turn around and there you will be by my side. So as we celebrate the 40th birthday of you my friend I will raise my glass in a toast…I hope you will always revel in the journey, celebrate what you have become, rejoice in the love that surrounds you but more importantly that you always have a full bottle of something and someone to share it with. Skoal, Prost, Le’chaim, Na zdrowie, . 'Budmo!' Cheers