This beauty holds the key to my heart and has been my greatest teacher in my life; my darling, my everything, my Sophia. She embodies the purest form of love and joy in my world. Her boundless curiousity, infectious goofiness, and tender spirit light up every corner in my life, reminding me of the beauty in every moment I have with her.

Not only a dear friend of mine, but also a pillar of strength and inspiration in my life for the past two decades. Jane and I first met as co-workers at Maluhia Hospital where our working bond quickly blossomed into a cherished friendship. Whether it's navigating the challenges of our careers or supporting each other through personal milestones, Jane has always been there with wisdom, compassion, and a fierce loyalty that I am truly grateful for.

I can't remember how many times or why we've pushed and punched each other on the arm since we were little. We fought over clothes, over the front seat, or whose turn it was to wash the dishes. But we also whispered secrets under blanket forts, held hands through scraped knees and broken hearts, and cheered each other on in ways no one else could. We've always had our differences, but I know that no matter how many fights we've had, no matter how different our lives may be, I know without a doubt that Lesley will always have my back. No matter where life takes us, Lesley will always be there when I need her. And now, as I enter a very important moment of my life, she'll be right there beside me. My bridesmaid. My sister.

I met Panayiotis at my very first Classics Department mixer at Oxford in 2010. He walked up to me and, without hesitation, asked, “La‘akea… is your name Hawaiian?” That moment set the tone for our friendship—curious, thoughtful, and full of shared passions. A kindred spirit, he’s like my little brother, bonded by our love of music, nerdy sci-fi, and endless history ramblings. No matter where life has taken us, he, his wife Pipa, and I have been partners in adventure ever since.

Jacob and I met in my very first undergraduate history class, History 300. Lost and unsure of my place in college, I remember this mountain of a man turning around before class and just striking up a conversation. We’ve been friends ever since that day in 2007, spanning multiple countries, states, and life chapters. Even if months go by without talking, every time we reunite, it feels like no time has passed—except that we both look a little older each time.

A beautiful, intelligent, and independent woman, I remember the first day that she opened her eyes and looked at me. I have always been incredibly proud of her and all that she does. I am grateful that the universe has blessed me with her; it was because of her that I learned what unconditional love was.