If someone told me in 2004 that the relatively quiet kid in my college photography class with the emo hair that covered one eye would one day be a household name known for his uncanny ability to excel at everything—including internet stardom—I would have believed them.

James, you were a standout from the moment we met, and our friendship means more than the world wide web. Happy birthday to one of New York’s finest.

Photo: Our Labor of Love

Happiest of birthdays to my better half, my one and only, my best friend. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—thank you, U.S. Postal Service for delivering to me the best package I could possibly imagine on that fateful day in 2006.

Happy birthday, Roni—I love you more than Jeter loves the game.

(Photo: Our Labor of Love)

Happy birthday, Daddio! Our love and appreciation for you knows no bounds! Hope your special day is more delightful than an ice cold Miller High Life after mowing a perfectly manicured lawn!

Q: How many things do James Nord and Gabourey Sidibe have in common?

A: Just one. A birthday.

Happiest of birthdays to one of my most Precious friends.