June 20th 1997 – We had only been friends for a few months. It was a so-so year and I threw myself a 29th birthday party at my Grandmama’s house. I was ready to celebrate. I invited you and I knew that you would show up, but I remember being sooooo excited when you arrived (while I was being country as hell grilling on the front porch). I served chicken and drinks in paper cups -nothing fancy. But, YOU kicked off the dance session in the living room and it was downhill from there! You and I didn’t take a picture that day, but this picture of you and AA captures the spirit of the day and makes me smile.

Thanks for being the girl who always shows up with a smile and gets the party poppin’. Love ya, Tami