:: Happy Birthday Megs ::

Today is my beautiful sister Megan's 24th birthday.



With Megs permission, I have included the {hilarious} maid-of-honor speech that she wrote and read for all of us during the wedding reception. Not to brag, but she was an excellent public speaker and an even better writer. Megs - THANK YOU for the love and support that you have given to Steve and I and thank you for being the best sister any woman could ask for - Love you!

I would like to start off by thanking everyone for joining us in the marriage celebration of Erin and Steve. I know that my family, as well as the Rinabargers are very much appreciative of the time and energy that you all set aside to witness this marriage. It is truly evident from the number of people here that both Erin and Steve have remarkable friends and a devoted family.

Since I am the younger sister of the bride, it is appropriate to give a congratulatory speech to both Erin and Steve. However with this opportunity, I would also like to talk about the two of them as individuals. By now, all of us should be familiar with the odd scenario that led this pair from the airport to the altar. I would like to acknowledge the circumstances that brought together these two wonderful people. We must give recognition for their similar business schedules that allowed for travel to California, the LAX security line, Steve’s un-zipped bag, Erin’s watchful eye for that un-zipped bag, Erin’s nosiness of his Washington State Drivers License and Steve’s willingness to switch seats on the Alaska Flight to sit next to a near perfect stranger…but then again, this stranger did have liquor to offer. We can only imagine the subsequent, endless, no-nonsense, presumably noisy conversation that occurred during the 2.5-hour trip between Los Angeles and Seattle. Although Erin was unlucky with her lost luggage after arriving into Seattle, I know she is only grateful for the effortless conversation that was able to continue on with Steve. My sister and Steve experienced an incredible combination of circumstances that day. May 19th 2006 proved to be a day of chance and unbeknownst to the both of them at the time, they had met their other half.

I am so happy Erin has found her match but I am also so thrilled to have found a brother. For years and years I have had an image in my mind of what makes up a brother. They are supposed to protect, push, guide, defend, understand, listen, teach and stand by you. Steve does all of these things with a sense of charm. However, like all brothers do, he still cracks jokes, teases me for my coke-bottle glasses, convinces me to shoot a rifle, forces me into freezing Lake Washington and always remains sensationally sarcastic. But all kidding aside, I have always referred to Steve as my brother. This was natural, it made sense and I felt honored to do so. Steve comes from an incredible family. Mike, Mo and Scott are truly wonderful people. Erin could not have asked for a better second family. The Rinabargers are kind-hearted, giving, confident, full of laughter, warriors, an amazing support system and they see decency in everyone. Because of this, I know Steve will always be a supportive brother and Erin’s devoted husband.

Although Erin and I are a few years apart, I have always admired her for several reasons. Erin is one of the most generous people I have ever met. She shows amazing compassion toward her friends and an honest concern for her family. One of the earliest memories I have of her kindness took place 17 years ago. I was in the first grade, and Erin in sixth grade. This was the only year we were in the same school, at the same time, together. I was celebrating my 7th birthday that day. I remember during a break from classes, Erin and her girl friends came down to the younger kids section, lifted me on the their shoulders and sang and chanted “Happy Birthday” to me as we strolled between the classroom buildings. That day, my sister left an impression on me. I was on cloud nine. She made my birthday extra special. This was a defining moment for me, and just one of the many instances that Erin would do something extraordinary for her younger sister. She also inspired me in many ways. Erin was always the leader, the athlete, the social butterfly and everyone’s friend. I followed her into ASB, played tennis, attempted basketball and soft-ball, both were short lived. I went to Washington State University, joined the same sorority and we graduated with the same degree. I always found light in what she did, which is why I followed in her footsteps. She has been my role model and given me encouragement. I could not ask for a better sister. I know Erin will make a wonderful wife to Steve. They will travel the world together, enjoy adventure, family, love and years of happiness and commitment. I am excited to see their life progress as husband and wife.

I would like to end with a few pieces of advice. Some of you may know that Erin is hooked on Discovery Health, Oxygen, TLC and other networks that discuss human abnormalities, diagnosis and lifestyles. One of these networks highlights the Duggar family. Best known for mom, Michelle, dad, Jim Bob and their 18 children. The couple has been married for 25 years and will apparently continue to have children until it is no longer possible. But as an experienced husband and father, I would like to share Jim-Bob’s tips for a happy marriage to both Erin and Steve.

Tip # 1
Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath. If you have any conflict, resolve them as quick as you can the day it happens before the sun goes down.

Tip # 2
Establish a weekly date night dedicated to going out together.

Tip # 3
The husband should cherish his wife and show her you love her by being respectful to her.

Tip #4
The husband should show his wife that he loves and cherishes by opening doors, going on dates with her, telling her love her and leaving her love notes around the house.

Tip #5
Ask your wife what home repair projects would be important to her and be sure to get them done!

Tip#6
Learn to listen to the heart of your wife and allow her to communicate her concerns and dreams with you on a daily basis.

Tip #7
Praise your wife and children 10 times more than you correct them.

Tip #8
Respect each other.

Tip # 9
Be fruitful and multiply.

Now 18 children might be a bit much for Erin and Steve, but regardless I wish you a lifetime of happiness, love for your family and a happily ever after. Congratulations!