
Meeting twelve years ago at The University of Georgia, Lateefah and I formed a friendship on the steps of Memorial Hall - and life was never to be the same. She and I have shared homes, meals, created many wonderful and hilarious memories and I even adopted her wonderful siblings (a real life Brady Bunch) as my own. I thank you and Kyle, for modeling "Black Love" for me to know and I am thankful to have you by my side on this joyous occasion!
Meeting in the 8th grade as "SBW", Aisha and I share a special sister bond, as Sorors, which is to never be broken, and of course I'll never forget our good ole' drill team days (smile). Often being the shoulder I cry upon or the first to "hear only the latest news", Aisha shines as the true "Queen" she is. More importantly, serving as the Godmother to my son, I am elated to have you as my Maid of Honor! I love you, lady!
The one whom I have nicknamed, "the reason for this season", Mieasha and I met on the job and soon referred to each other as "sisters" at work, to reference the cute exchanges between two sisters whom participated in our program. I thank God that I will officially be able to share this title with you. Mandrell loves you dearly and without a shadow of a doubt, I know why.
My beautiful "Sister-Greek" friend of more than 15 years and fellow Banneker High alum, Yarnell and I met on a college tour to Howard University and as they say, the rest is history. My first roommate in college (why did she let me bribe her into NOT attending Brown University - I'll never know) and dear friend to the end. I love you lady and look forward to having you join me on this spiritual occasion. I love you Yarnellypooh - dare I "reveal" your real nickname that I have given (and you the same) :-)
Meeting June as quite a "loquacious" five year old (smile) I never knew that she and I would become inseperable. Not only are you the best aunt ever to Kameron, but your genuine sweet spirit, angelic singing voice and unmatchable humor continues to amaze me. You are the sister I never had and am honored to have you by my side as I become one with Mandrell.
As children, one would never know, that Richard and I were cousins, as we often partook in brotherly "fights" and other mischieves in our hometown of Fayetteville, NC. Ironically, we are close as brothers, as our mothers (twin sisters,Gloria and Emma) often kept us in activities together. I thank you for being by my side as the "Best Man" in my wedding.
Kameron, you are a wonderful young man and I thank you for allowing me to be a part of you and your mother's life. You are the coolest son and I am looking forward to the day when we all will be an official family.
"Nephizzle" you are an intelligent young man and a "chip" off the ol' family block. I look forward to watching you continue to reach towards the stars. I will look to you to hook up the "video gaming experience" before the wedding to help calm my nerves (LOL).
Chris, knowing you since 1997, I know that I can always count on you to give me advice (whether I ask for it or not) on many things. You have been a true friend and I thank you for joining me on my wedding day. PS: Erica sends her threats to you if you bail out :-)
What more can I say to the oldest brother who taught Eric and I all of our "manly" ways (LOL). I am thankful that you returned back safely from Iraq to return to the family. Thank you for being a part of the wedding and more importantly thank you for always being you.
The daughter of Erica's friend, Mrs. Erika Cormier, I am honored to have you as one of my pretty little flowergirls.
Little Miss Kayla is one of my youngest cousins and the spitting image of my grandmother. Your sweetness is just what I will need on my special wedding day. I love you Kaylah pooh.
Kelsey, one of the most intelligent and cutest little girls I know. Thank you for being a part of my wedding. Auntie loves you.
Lil' Sed, having you in my wedding means more than you know. You and TJ are very special little guys to me and always put a smile on my face. Love you always.
TJ, Auntie is more than happy to have you in my wedding. Besides, you are the only young man I'd trust to carry down the "ring pillow" on such a special day. Just remember, no flipping or tackling the guests when coming down the wedding aisle :-)
Auntie loves you, big guy!!
Jessica - Thank you for being my little sister and always keeping me in the know about "brother". I value you and your words and look forward to watch you continue to blossom into the fabulous young lady that you are.
Teyonna - You had my heart once I knew that you were a basketball lover. Mandrell speaks highly of his nieces and I am honored to join your family. Thank you for being a part of our wedding day.
Rasheeda - Thank you for agreeing to be in our wedding. You and Teyonna always are the "go to" girls for the latest trends on fashion, news and more. Continue to excel in all that you do, Miss Superstar!