* MERCADOS * “We never know the love of our parents for us till we have become parents.”: Congrats to Lauren, leading up to her big day

( what type of Halloween costume did my mom put me in) ha ha - lo looks cute in mini mouse

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I can't even begin to tell you how happy I am for my dear friend Lauren and her soon to be hubby Jason. I was just thinking about it last night and how we have truly been through more together then anyone else in my life from childhood to present. We have shared many great, exciting, fun, adventurest, rewarding milestones and sad moments with my closest friends. But Lo and I have been friends for over 25 1/2 years. We have been friends since ELM. School. We were placed next to eachother on the first day of school and by last name, ha ha the rest is history! We hit it off and it was to funny that I'll never live this down but I took Lauren's hand and said come on let go play! All the funny things we do as kids. It has been priceless growing up with Lauren and being around the whole family my whole life. I truly think of her, Tina/ Gary and the family as my family too. We grew up enjoying times with each others grandparents, parents, siblings and extended family. We have shared holidays, sleep overs, play dates, imaginary careers, acting like models/ super stars, dress up, dance classes, school, make overs, dances, friends, boy drama, jobs and career paths have crossed more then once in our adult life.

We have seen eachother grow into the women we have become. We were their for eachother when we each went our own ways in college but each of us passionate about each others journey and paths we would take. No matter how far - well more so me then her moved, we could always come back to where we left off. We have been through hard times together, loss of loved ones, relationships, college graduations, careers, she was right there for me on my wedding day, her becoming an auntie and then the birth of my children and now it's Lauren's turn to have this special day as I know she will be the most beautiful bride. I'm so happy for her and Jason. I love you like a sister and can't be happier for you to have found the man of your dreams and the love of your life.

When you brought him to my birthday dinner I had an idea maybe this is the one. It was like there 2nd or 3rd date. I remember telling Jonathan and my mom I think she really likes him. In return my mom said well its a good name and if he treats Lauren right then he will be perfect for her. And now here we are...

Cheers to my best friend and welcome to the family Jason. I love you both and wish you nothing but love, happiness and Wedding bliss for a life time of marriage. You deserve nothing but the BEST LO!