"There are lots of reasons, but I'll give you three. One, I'm half Irish. Two, I'm from a huge family and I've been attending several weddings a year for the last few years, and three, when I was in ROTC we had regular formal balls, and heaven help you if you screw up the etiquette."

Karen continued standing. "Ahhumm. Here's to Debbie, with the biggest heart I've ever known, so vulnerable, but with so much to give." Karen toasted.

I leaped to my feet. "And whatever she's willing to give, I'm willing to take!" I added, waving my glass high.

"To Debbie!" Beth added, and we all drank to Debbie....