My friend and I are package deal. We go just about everywhere together and spend as much time as possible together. Over seven years of friendship, I made my way into their family. The other day, I sat down and realized how lucky I was to have them in my life, and here's why:

1. Thank you for always welcoming me.

Whether it was late at night and I needed a place to crash, or it was early in the morning and passing time before work. You always gave me a friendly smile and greeted me.

2. Thank you for listening.

Over the years, you have heard countless of hours of me venting. It may have been family drama, boyfriend problems, or just personal issues, either way, you sat there and even gave me a shoulder to cry on once in a while.

3. Thank you for spending my birthdays with me.

Sure, I get a birthday with my real family when we all get a chance to gather, but it's extremely flattering when you guys want me to come over and blow out candles. It made me feel like one of your own.

4. Thank you for making me food!

No matter how long your day was, you always extended and invitation to supper for me. You also never told me to leave when it was time to go out to eat and made room for one more.

5. Thank you for treating me as your own.

Whether I needed a good lecture or just a hug, you always pulled through. You yelled at all of us when we started getting rowdy, not just your kids. That may sound strange, but it means that your comfortable enough around me to do so.

6. Thank you for putting me to work.

When I showed up there, I may not have always known what I was getting into, but you put a paintbrush in my hand or a duster in my hand with ease. As I joined in, I felt connected to you all.

7. Thanks for treating me as another sibling.

Sure, you bug me like a little sister and brother, but I wouldn't want it any other way. You guys have my back and I appreciate it. From driving around town to sitting on the couch and watching a movie, you guys make every night memorable.

8. Thank you for encouraging me.

From huge exams to long days at work, you always know what to say to keep me going. It's not your job to. And that's what you so all the more amazing. Knowing that I'm supported from not only my intermediate family, but also my second family is the best feeling.

You didn't have to welcome me into your home. You didn't have to continuously invite me along with you all, but you do. You are wonderful people. I wouldn't be fully who I am without you guys. I am so thankful for the love and memories I was given with you all.