Matthew "The Bestman" Shand [Visitor] on: October 31st, 2006 at 1:06 pm

My position in the wedding party is Best man; however, that is simply not the case, because the best man I’ve ever known is sitting right over there; yes, the one with the potato-shaped head. That’s right big guy, I’m talking about you. Ryan is the archetypal big brother. Just look at him; he exemplifies the term. He’s big. Ryan is 7 feet tall and weighs 583 pounds. Ryan had a lucrative acting career with Budweiser until DNA testing revealed he was not a Clydesdale. Ryan likes to tell people he can bench press small cars; when he says small cars, he means WWII German Panzers. I was very fortunate to grow up with a big brother like Ryan. If nothing else, I felt safe around him. When Ry started junior high, he moved into his own room, so he wouldn’t wake up our brother Chris and I when he left for school before we did. If I was having a bad dream, I’d sneak into Ry’s room and fall asleep at the foot of his bed, because I knew that he would lay the smack down on any boogey man that tried to get me. Ryan is a great role model. He kicked ass over at RIT, both in the classroom and on the lacrosse field. He was a Captain, too, so he’s kind of a big deal. Ryan, you’re the greatest man I know, and I’m proud to be your brother.

My brothers and I have always felt glad we never had a sister. When I met Kate Dwyer, I questioned that feeling for the first time. Kate is one of the most intelligent, driven, and successful women I’ve ever met. On top of that, she’s beautiful, down-to-earth, and can keep up with the comedic genius of Ryan, Christopher, and myself. There is no denying that Kate Dwyer is small; she’s 4 foot 2, 73 pounds soaking wet. Despite her dainty appearance, Kate is tough. I know this because I once dropped her on her head, and she was O.K. Any girl that can sustain a 5 foot drop onto their noggin and not cry is worthy of standing among the ranks of the Shand brothers. Kate, you just may be the sister I never had, and I’m overjoyed to finally, officially, welcome you into the family.

I had the unique pleasure of living with these two this past summer. As such, I was able to view this couple in their natural habitat, and from my observations I can tell you all two things. One, Kate wears the pants. But, more importantly, these two are made for each other. They say opposites attract; here’s your proof. Ryan is big. Kate is small. Ryan plays sports. Kate is a girl. Kate watches reality TV. Ryan changes the channel to football. Kate likes to cook, and Ryan is a meathead. While Ryan and Kate have their differences, there are also many things that unify them, not the least of which is their love for one another.

There are many definitions for what love is. I feel it’s more important to be able to see something, an action, a behavior, a situation, and be able to say “That. That is love.” If you spend enough time around these two, you’ll find yourself saying that over and over.

When I first heard these two were engaged, I was a little apprehensive. I wasn’t ready to let go of my big brother. In getting to know Kate, I’ve realized that he’s in good hands. Capable hands. The best hands. The best hands, for the best man. I love you both, and I’m very, very happy you two found each other. Congratulations.

Neil [Member] on: November 1st, 2006 at 8:27 am

THANKS MATT – you had me rolling! I can’t imagine what you’ve put up with Adele 88|