I actually wrote something to read to thank everyone at the wedding. But then the suit got wet, and I changed, thus leaving the letter in my pocket. I meant to say more than "thanks for coming" three times (Thanks for keeping the stats, V) So here it is. And thanks again:

Now, I’ve never actually written a book, so this might not be all that accurate. But I feel as if I just completed a book, and this is the time I write my acknowledgements and thank those who made it possible. This feeling could entirely be the fault of my two favorite writers, and if the time ever comes and we’re looking at names for an unborn boy, I can’t say I won’t try to introduce Bill Simmons Hirshberg or Chuck Simmons Hirshberg, or some variation, into the conversation. Moms, don’t get excited. It’s a long shot, but the fact that we’re here today really prevents me from dismissing long shots.

Now let me get on with my thank yous.

To my friends, the married ones, I learned a lot by watching you guys. Occasionally I learned what not to do, but more than you’d think, I also learned what to do. I think Chris is equally as thankful for that. And to the women, your patience with these guys gave me hope that I might find one of my own, as well as helped me figure out what I was looking for.

And Mike, you’re on deck. Any other day I’d make the same cracks I heard the last 6 months, but really, this is just the coolest thing ever. We really are all growns up, Mikey.

To my cousins, Glen and Eric. You guys can’t fully understand how you both inspired me to blog, and just how key that was to today happening.

To my brother, Jay, I hope to be half the father you are.

To mom and dad, well, there just aren’t enough words to properly thank you for everything you’ve done for me.

To Chris, you helped me write the last words of my first “book,” and writing the next one with you is going be an absolute blast.

And a special thanks (this wasn't part of the original) to Jennifer Sussman (and her assistant) who went above and beyond our wildest expectations as our photographer.