for over 20 years (half my life) i've known a really amazing woman and almost 18 years ago she agreed to marry me.  when it comes to people that have influenced me, eva is at the top of the list.  she's been an amazing friend, wife and for a little over half of our life together - mother.  sam was born on our 7th wedding anniversary - for some this would be a difficult date to share, but for us we've just put more emphasis on the day that changed my life - april 30th, 1998 (that's the night i met eva).  today is her birthday and so i can't think of a more appropriate influence to share today.