July 4th, 1990

A couple friends came and pulled me out of my studio apartment to go to some 4th of July party. My mom was in the hospital, so I was pretty bummed. I ask my friends who's going to be at the party and they said some girl named, "Mindy", that they wanted me to meet. I didn't want to and especially didn't want to be setup on a blind date. Two very bad things for me: parties with lots of people & being obligated to talk with strange girls-- bad, bad, bad.

Got introduced to about 5 girls coming into the party house. Everyone seemed a little peppy for me, but I drudged on. Shook Mindy's hand, but didn't make eye-contact because eye-contact has always been a hard thing for me to do. I later found out that I didn't make a very good impression on Mindy. She thought I was distant and cocky. Boy was she wrong. ;>)

We played board games (another thing on my list of bad things to do) and I noticed that Mindy was pretty outspoken about women's rights and such. I don't know how/when it happened, but she ended up in the chair next to me. What caught my eye were her big green eyes. She talked really fast and I liked talking to her.

We left the house to go see fireworks. In the car, I asked her if she believed in God. She said, "Yes." The fireworks were at another house that overlooked Reno. We shared a blanket as it got a little chilly. Mindy and I went into the house to use the restroom. When I came out, she was waiting for me. That was special to me. She believed in God and had a sweet spirit-- doesn't get any better than that.

I've been with Mindy from that day on. Mindy is good people. Loyal as they come. Nurturing like none other. Patient. Helps. She is a precious gem. A beautiful flower. My best friend.

I love you, Mindy. The last 17 years have flown by. I'm looking forward to many more with you.