A Toast: Marina to Alina and Mark.

For those of you who don't know me, I'm Alina's sister. For those of you who do know me, and were at my wedding, you know Alina gave an amazing speech. It will be hard to top...but I'll try. Of course, there was another great speech delivered by our dad. He is here with us today in spirit because he wouldn't miss this day for the world.

Alina, you and I got off on the wrong foot. I was already suspicious about getting a baby sister and it didn't help when they forgot me at the hospital when I came to help pick you up. On top of that, you had no interest whatsoever in hanging out when you did come home. Always one to keep score, I asked our dad whom he loved more and he said, “That's like asking me to choose my left arm or my right arm.” I remember thinking that I, having in possession two arms of my own, had to love one more than the other.

However, as you got older and became a plump and adorable dark curly haired toddler who followed me around and copied everything I do, I'd say you grew on me and soon I'd give either of my arms for you. As we got older, it was hard to tell which one of us was older and more mature. I remember our parents leaving us alone to go on vacation and telling you, “Make sure she eats.” I always went to you for advice and you never let me down. I have no idea where you got that smart at 12. Later, when I went abroad after college, you handed me a letter to read on the plane. I liked your letter so much, I carried it around with me the entire trip, so that you'd think it came from the Dalai Lama.

Meeting Mark was like finding your second pea in a pod. I've never met two people more compatible. It goes without saying that Mark is, as they say in Russian, a golden person. Mark, I'm pretty sure Max (you may be familiar with his earlier work as a ring bearer), likes you more than any other member of this family, including his parents.

And finally, as your older sister, I feel compelled to finally dole out advice of my own. I'll keep it to three things.

First, surround yourself with good friends.

I think you've got this one covered. I'm pretty sure Alina and Mark are the most likeable people on this planet. Their union might need a new definition of the word “nice” in the dictionary. Remember, that to have good friends you must be a good friend. So I wish for your dance card to always be full and your Google Calendars to always be in synch.

Second, always have a junk drawer. (Mark, please don't cringe.)

If you've been to their apartment, you've seen their drawers. Everything is its own place and neatly organized. It's crazy. If you can find everything you're ever looking for, how would you ever stumble on something unexpected? A junk drawer can be magical. You'll find things you've forgotten you've had, and it'll be like you're seeing them for the first time. In fact, you'll find everything there except the one thing you need. And sometimes randomness is exactly what you didn't know you were looking for.

Lastly, experience novelty together.

In life's inevitable ebb and flow, time flies, and you'll grow and mature as a couple and as individuals. Doing something novel slows down the perception of time, but at the same time brings you closer. New and exciting things come along all the time if you pay attention, and they're less scary if you stand side by side, look into each other's eyes, and go for it. You may not always agree, but you'll share it together.

Alright, I'm pretty sure I've created advice deficit on your end – now what should I do about my 401k? Isn't it great I can bug both of you about taxes?

Anyway, I've always thought of people divided into two kinds – those that have sisters and those that don't. Having a sister defined me so much as a person, and I'm always grateful for that. In fact, there was a study that determined having a sister makes you happier in life. In this respect, both you guys and I are pretty lucky, too. Well, I guess Cara got kind of screwed but hey, she's gaining two sisters now!

Before I finish, I just want you to do something for me. Mark and Alina, I'd like you two to stand up. Your wedding day goes by so fast, and I speak from experience. You blink and it's over. Take a moment to drink it all in - your guests, the flowers, your beautiful setting. Mark, put your hand on top of Alina's and take this time to see how it feels to just stand there, now as husband and wife, and hold hands. Also, Mark, this will be the last time you have the upper hand in this union!

I love you both so much and congratulations!

what's now?

mark is reading...

wind up bird chronicle
by haruki murakami
cryptonomicon
by neal stephenson

listening to...

bedlam in goliath
by the mars volta

marina is reading...

linchpin: are you indispensable?
by seth godin

listening to...

holy smoke
by gin whigmore

watching...

californication

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