I’ve been asked many times why Star Wars is so important to me. It’s not difficult to answer that question, although many people don’t understand. I fell in love with the story and characters first and foremost. I couldn’t get enough of it, and began collecting action figures, reading the books, and soaking up every piece of information I could find. Twenty years later, I’m still obsessed with the saga, so much that I write for this blog and co-host our podcast. Most other interests faded away over time. What’s different about Star Wars?

To me, Star Wars is much more than just a movie franchise, or even a tale of good versus evil. Through Star Wars, and avenues like Twitter and message boards, I’ve become friends with tons of other fans I would have never otherwise known. I’ve gotten the chance to meet many of them at conventions and other events. Some of them have even become really good friends who I talk to nearly every day. One such person is Brian, the reason that this blog and the podcast exist. We first met through the TFN fan fiction forums over two years ago. Over time we became podcast co-hosts, blog partners, and the best of friends.

Today, dear readers, is Brian’s birthday, and he’s up at the crack of dawn and stuck on a plane all day. I can’t think of a better way to cheer him up than to embarrass the hell out of him on the Internet. So happy birthday, Brian! I’m so grateful for that silly space movie that came out in 1977, and that it gave me the opportunity to know you. And remember, the Force (and I) will be with you…always.

Nanci does her best Wes Janson impersonation at Celebration VI. Brian, channeling Wedge, is not amused.