While I grew up only having one sibling, my mom grew up having ten. That mean lots of aunts and uncles and even more cousins. Although they were spread out throughout the country, a few relatives continue to live close by and I grew up with a strong connection to my mom's youngest sister. She's more than an aunt, she's like a big sister and a forever friends.

Thank you for giving me my favorite cousins to grow up with. It seems like yesterday we were playing in the snow, watching Disney movies, and having sleepovers. It's hard to believe we're all grown up now.

Thank you for braiding my hair when I was little and coming to all of my birthday parties (you always gave me the best gifts).

Thank you for always feeding me when I come over, even if I'm not necessarily hungry. It's impossible to leave your house without trying your latest dessert or having a snack.

Thank you for letting me tag along on runs to Target or Walmart, or simply just running errands, it's always fun to be with you.

Thank you for being an extra parent when I need one to give me guidance, give me a shoulder to cry on, or simply listen to me.

Thank you for always being supportive, encouraging me when life gets tough, and making me laugh when I need to.

Thank you for giving me my best friend, my littlest and sweetest cousin, who continues to remind me every day that life is beautiful and that sometimes the wisest people are only in second grade.

Most of all, thank you for always having an open door, and even better, open arms.

You're a woman I look up to. I admire your faith, your strength, and your incredibly compassionate heart. My mom is lucky to have you as a sister, and I'm lucky to call you my aunt.