I was honored when Kaz asked me to write something for her and Chris’ wedding.

I remember the day that I met Kaz in 1992. I was instantly struck by her beauty. But I was also impressed with her gracefulness and her giving manner. She had a quality that I admired. Immediately, I liked Kaz, and over the years, Kaz and I became close friends. I learned over time that Kaz has more than outer beauty, but she has the gift of generosity, tenacity and a love for life that is stronger than I have ever seen.

Kaz and Chris met briefly at UCLA back in the 80s, but it was 4 years ago this month that they found each other. They met again at Karen and Kev’s wedding, and with a little help from friends and family, they started dating. I remember Kaz telling me everything she knew about Chris, in full detail, as she has a talent to do. From the first conversation, I new that Chris was going to become very important in Kaz’ life. I later learned that Chris was loyal, dependable and that these two balanced each other and made each other stronger.

Since Chris was living in San Mateo and Kaz was living in Los Angeles, their early relationship was by cell phone, United and Southwest Airlines. But that didn’t stop Kaz and Chris. From the start, they began a weekly 4 year commute and a daily telecommute that started in September of 1995 and has continued. Until today. But rather than me telling why these two are getting married, I thought I’d let them tell you in their own words.

A few months ago, I asked Chris why he loved Kaz, and why he was marrying her today. He said, "She’s high energy, man. When she gets behind something and focuses on it, it’s going to happen." (Like today.) He continued, "Kaz is incredible. I love her openness. You know how when you meet someone for the first time and you hold back a little? Well, not Kaz. When you meet her, that’s her from the start. Kaz pushes herself to give and she doesn’t expect anything in return. I love the care and thoughtfulness she gives others, without hesitation. This includes her family, her friends and even strangers. She truly gives of herself and respects others."

Chris told me that the givingness of herself and the things Kaz does for her family, friends, for him and his mom, are why he’s marrying her today. Then Chris told me that this proposal was three years in the making, and Kaz can attest to that. And if you haven’t heard the story of their New York Tavern-on-the- Green, kidnapping surprise trip with only sandals, no wallet, Phil hiding in the bushes with a camera, Chris walking up at the airport, Sandy getting her there, Kaz do you want a Menthos -- engagement, then you should ask Kaz yourself, because that woman can tell a story.

Now when I asked Kaz why she was marrying Chris, she immediately wanted to know what Chris said about her. I didn’t tell her. So, I think she wanted to have one up on him because when I asked her what she loved about Chris, she said simply, EVERYTHING. Then she expanded and said that she thought Chris was honestly the most genuine person she knew, and she knew it. Kaz said, "I just know in my heart that Chris truly loves me, appreciates me, and most importantly, he respects me. I know that he is the kind of person who would sacrifice himself for me. He has a way of making me feel that I am the most important person in his life. He helps me to love myself more, and be a better person. And it goes both ways, I love, appreciate, and respect him in all ways."

These words were spoken by Kaz and Chris a few months ago.

Kaz and Chris, I have a few words for you guys. Actually, eight words. (These words are based on some of the words you have expressed for each other.)

Love, respect, giving, caring, sharing, life, together, forever.

Kaz and Chris, I know that with love, respect, giving, caring and sharing, your life together will always be happy.

September 1999