Dear Gerry,

I know It's been a long time since I've written, but don't think I've forgotten about you. That's not even possible. You were so much a part of me. You'll always hold a special place in my heart. I'm backl here in the land of the leprechauns. It just didn't seem right to leave, and Mom's been happier than I've seen her in years. Maybe there's something in the air or the water? I don't know, but for whatever reason Ireland agrees with her. Why didn't we bring her here years ago?

You'll be proud to know I'm still in the designer shoe biz. It's been two and a half years now and I still love it. My creations seem to be just as popular here as they were in America, and I'm so grateful. My success is something I owe to you, at least in part. If it weren't for you're help I never would have discovered this passion, but you're well aware of my tendency to over-think things and look passed the obvious. Who knew that a buckle from a suspender could serve such an important purpose? A small part of me still regrets fighting with you that night, but the making up felt SO good, SO right. It was almost worthwhile just for that. The way your kisses were tender, but passionate at the same time. Sitting here thinking about it now gives me chills even after all this time, and how could I forget the way you strutted your stuff? I loved it! You were too sexy for your own good. I mean it.

Don't think I've just been sitting here pinning for you though. I took your advice and watched for that signal, the one that would end life as I knew it. It came from William, or should I say Billy Gallagher. Accepting that was a hard thing because I felt like I was betraying you by being with him. He makes me happy, and I know you want that for me above all else. There are things about him that remind me of you. That hurt at first, but it's probably one of the reasons I was attracted to him. You guys have a similar sense of humor for one. He makes me laugh every day, but he also understands why this relationship isn't easy for me. He knows what it's like to lose a best friend. He lost you too. You're parents weren't the only ones who missed you when you moved to New York. I can't help but wonder why you and Billy never kept in touch.

Speaking of keeping in touch I heard from Sharon and John the other day. It's really hard to be so far away from them. (Thank God for Facebook, web cams, and the good old fashioned telephone.) John says business is good at the dealership, and Sharon's still working for Larry. I don't know how she does it. They sent me pictures of their little one Kevin Patrick Stewart. Well actually he's not so little anymore. He's adorable. He looks a lot like John. All this baby talk leads me to my big news. I'm pregnant! I'm only a few weeks along but I have a feeling it's a boy! He's gonna be a cute little Irish guy who sings all the time! What do you think of the name Ryan Gerry Gallagher? It's my first choice. I haven't told William yet, but I think he'll like it too! I wish I could have had kids with you. I know you would've been a great dad, but I guess it wasn't meant to be. I never could've raised a child without you physically beside me. I'm terrified now, but William says it'll be alright. He says it with so much conviction that I almost believe him. Speaking of the devil, he says I need my beauty sleep. The overprotective dad in him is already starting to show. I think it's sweet!

I'll try to write again soon. The gang (Sharon, John, Kevin, Denise, and Tom,) are supposed to come over here this summer. I don't know if it'll work out as it has been attempted before. If it works out I'll be sure to tell you about our misadventures.

P.S. You know what comes next