We are FAMILY

"I don't care how poor a man is; if he has family, he's rich."


My family is everything to me. They are a shoulder to cry on, a source of uncontrollable laughter, hugs of comfort, shelter from the storm, my roots and my future. They will always mean the world to me. And I will never stop loving them.

I don't take enough time to tell my family what they mean to me, so here's a blog just for them. Others can surely read this and relate.

Mom & Dad,
You have taught me so much. I don't even know where to begin. You laid a foundation for me that paved the way for a life filled with joy. You did things for me that seemed so small when I was a child, but now I see are so much bigger than I could have understood then. You took the time to have family dinners every night, to help me with my homework, to feed me ice cream and sleep with me on the pull-out couch when I had my tonsils out, to tell me a comforting story when I was having nightmares and couldn't sleep, to take me driving when I had my permit and was a terrible driver. You had patience with me when I was a selfish young adult trying to figure out life on my own, you helped me get up when I fell down, you forgave my many faults and you always, always loved me. You raised me to love God, to not judge, and to have an open heart and mind.  I don't think I will ever fully understand the sacrifices you made for me. I love you.

Melissa,
You are my big sister and one of the smartest people I know. From the time I could stand on my own two feet, I have looked up to you. You have always looked out for me. (ie: saving me from drowning in lake 26!) I am so proud of all that you have accomplished already in your life. I remember sneaking into your room when you were away at college and just sitting in there, missing you. I remember going in your closet when you were in high school and looking at all of your clothes and wishing I could dress like you. I remember when we shared a room and you overslept and were upset because you had to pin your jeans at school, lol. I remember you taking care of all of us when Mom & Dad would be at work in the summers. And now, we're great friends. I can come to you with anything. I still look up to you. You are a beautiful person. I love you.

Andy,
Hobe-ster! :) Of all of the family, I have probably spent the most time with you. When I didn't have many friends, you would let me spend time with you & yours. We played video games, found a love for scary movies (Scream!), after a few years of recovering from Dad letting us watch It, lol. We shared excitement and anticipation for Santa and the Easter bunny to come every year. We picked on each other a lot, but always had each other's back. I am so proud of the person you have become. You treat Owen like your own son, and you can see in his eyes how much he loves you. You work the hardest of anyone I know. You have so much drive and perseverance. You are incredibly loyal and a great person. I love you.

Dan,
"Pinky, Pinky, Pinky and the Brain, Brain, Brain, Brain..." :) You have always been my buddy. When I didn't feel like I had anyone, I always had you. Even though you're younger than me, in a lot of ways you took care of me. We've always been close and I hope that never goes away. You've always amazed me with your ability to let people in and to give everyone a chance. I rarely see you judge, and that is so unique. Through everything, you have always believed in me. And I want you to know that I believe in you too.  I love you.

To all of you:
I am so proud to call you my family. I will always love you and be here for you.