On August 15, 2000, Heaven came down to Earth. That was the day I met up with Tiffany in Las Vegas, Nevada. This was only our second time seeing each other. The reason for Las Vegas was because my family and I were there on vacation for the week, and Tiffany and I planned for her to come and stay with us. It was wonderful. Here's Tiffany's recollection of what happened that day she arrived at the McCarran Airport in Las Vegas:

Here it was, August 15, 2000. I had been waiting for this day since late March to see Torin again. My mind was racing with anticipation. I was sitting and thinking what my first reaction was going to be once I saw his face again. Was I going to cry from happiness?? Or was I going to give him a big smooch & hug?? Who knew?? To get my mind off of wondering about my reaction, I decided to fill out his anniversary card. I couldn't believe it....we were going to be able to be together for our anniversary (kinda). It's originally on August 21st. But our trip only lasted until the 18th. Anyhoo.......time went by and just as I was about ready to doze off, the pilot announced that we would be landing in Vegas in about 15 minutes. I made sure my stuff was together and prepared to land. Once I finally landed, I just wanted to zip out of that plane for two reasons. 1) I wanted to be able to breathe. This dude sitting diagonally from me had some bad pits. 2) I WANTED TO SEE TORIN!! After making my way to the walk ramp, I walked as fast as I could without running because I didn't want to tip over and tumble down the ramp from the weight of my carry-on backpack. Once I got near the end of the tunnel, I was peeking around the giants (I'm only 5'2") to see if I could get a glimpse of Torin. Lo and behold, there he was a lil off to the right of the ramp. His eyes lit up and his cute round face had the biggest smile on it once we made eye contact. He greeted me with open arms and a great big kiss! His hug was just as intense (emotionally) as it was back in March, but this time I could breathe when he hugged me. It was heaven on earth to be in his arms again. :) After the wonderful reunion, I was introduced to his sister Tracey, and her husband, Gary and his other sister, TJ and her boyfriend, Grant. After that, we all made our way to baggage claim. Hand in hand, excitement in the air, and slot machines singing their money melodies, Torin and I (along with his family) claimed my baggage, made our way to the van and drove off to the hotel for an action packed week.

This was the beginning of one of the greatest weeks in my life. I want to say "Thank You" to the Takahashi family (and Grandma Yamato) for being so great to me on my first trip out west. :) I'll never forget it. :)

I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!