Jackie was getting married and I had come down for the festivities.  Julie was very pregnant.  It was the night before the wedding and we were all at the firehouse.  Julie and I were blowing up balloons.  Brian was hustling around doing this and that.  From setting up lattice work to getting on a ladder to string decorations, keeping and eye on Julie in case whe went into labor, he was happily doing whatever needed to be done.  I have a picture of him taken at the wedding.  He is holding his precious Brie and you can see the love for that child just glowing on his face.  One of the following days we were at a get-togther at Marc's.  Brian had not seen me since I was maybe a toddler.  We sat down to get re-accuainted and we had a grand 'ole time.  We talked about anything and everything.  We shared "war" stories about firemen.  Him from the aspect of being one and my being at the time a 911 dispatcher - putting me on the opposite end of the spectrum.  The trials and tribulations of being in the fire service and EMT.  We swapped horror stories and the funnier things that occur between dispatch and those working in the field.  We joked and laughed togehter all afternoon.  I was going through some personal problems, he was such a good listener and really understood.  Gave me great advice which I followed.  Turned out he was right - that helped me get past the tough times.  To this day I can recall his openness, non-judgemental ways, his laughter .  He was the real deal - 100% genuine.  But despite not really knowing my, he took it upon himself to make up for lost time.  I treasure those few hours that we had together.  His kindness and unique persona made a lasting impression on me.  I regret that life got in the way and I did not see him again on any more of my trips to NJ.  In those few short days I was blessed to "discover" this great 'cuz of mine.  He holds a very dear place in my heart and will be remembered with love and fondness.  Rest in peace, dear Brian, rest in peace.  I love and miss you.  We will meet again......