Looking Back

"Captain's Personal Log
Star date: 58227.3

Deanna and I have been on the Titan for two years now. It has been an amazing two years, to say the least. Hostile aliens, new friends, various planets applying for admission into the Federation of Planets, and even a two new additions to our little crew.

These new additions are very special. Their names are acting cadet William Thomas Riker Jr. and acting cadet Kestra Troi. They came into this universe thirteen months ago and have been a wonderful addition to this crew.

OK, so they are young and no one knows if they are Starfleet material yet, but can I help it that I am a very proud father? Besides, they bring a light of joy to everyone on the ship. So, they have been designated the moral officers. Unofficially of course.

So far we have not been asked about the different last names, but we thought it best to have our daughter carry on the Troi legacy; at least in name, and Willy just wouldn't be a junior if he had the Troi name, so he got my name to make him a true junior! My father was very happy that we had at least one of our children carry on the Riker name. I guess it's because Deanna and I come from two different cultures that no one as questioned the surnames.

Deanna has been great through all of this too. I don't see how she does it all! She's a mother, ship's counselor, and a wife. On top of it all, she manages to deal with a slob like me! Our quarters always look great, except for the few toys here and there left by Kestra and Willy, but that is life with children.

I also have a great crew. They don't seem to mind having a married captain, especially one married to the ship's counselor. They seem to appreciate a captain with family ties. I guess it gives them hope for their futures in Starfleet. No one wants to be a lonely officer with no one to report home too. I feel sorry for the admirals that go through their whole careers with no one in their lives, except a brief fling here and there. Flings are not all they're cracked up to be. I should know, because I've been there and done that. I'm surprised Deanna managed to stick around until I got past all of that and realized I wanted more in my life than short term affairs.

Lwaxana has been a great mother-in-law, which is a surprise to me. I thought she was going to be overbearing and intrusive, but she has managed to be helpful without being overly involved. She's even been a wonderful grandmother. She is always doting on the children when she comes to visit, yet she also helps with the twins, which is most appreciated. Deanna and I get so worn out by our rambunctious little ones.

Our current mission is to improve our relations with the Romulans. They are seeking admission into the Federation of Planets. So far, our talks have gone well and Deanna says they are being genuine in their desire to make peace with the Federation. The talks have gone very well, I might add, and their admission seems promising."

Bridge to Captain

"End Personal Log. Riker here."

The Cardassians wish to file a complaint concerning the admission of the Romulans into the Federation.

"What?"

The Card…

"I heard what you said, Commander. What I don't understand is their request. I'm on my way. Riker out."

"Addendum to Personal Log. It seems the Cardassians are at it again and they aren't even apart of the Federation. Now it's my job to tell them their complaint will be noted, but won't be official because they are not Federation members.

Reminds me of my old friend's saying, 'All part of the service.' "