Cousins are those childhood playmates that grow up to be the best of friends. The times spent at Meemaw and Papa’s house have resulted in some of the best memories we have, the best days of our lives. Fourth of July is more than just a holiday in our family; it’s time for fireworks, drumsticks, family and friends. It’s those times as a child when I learned just how fortunate I am to have the family I do. As we’ve grown up, I’ve grown even more thankful for the relationship I’ve gained with my cousin because it’s true... you do grow up to be the best of friends, no matter the distance between you, and it’s one of the most true friendships you’ll ever find for many reasons.
It’s a common phrase jokingly used by many friends, “We’ve been friends since before I can remember.” Well you guys have actually been friends since before you can remember. Your parents have had you together since before you could walk so all of your childhood memories have her right by your side. Every Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving and basically any other minor reason you had to be together, you were attached at the hip.
They understand the ins and outs of your family and won’t judge you for your crazy aunt or obnoxiously loud uncle. Family gatherings are always better with her there because she understands your glances and doesn’t even need you to tell her to save you from Uncle So-and-So (yes, every family has them).
You don’t always live in the same time zone, which makes the time you do have together that much better. Families often move apart, which makes spending time together that much more difficult. How am I supposed to get 145 miles when I couldn’t even reach the pedals? But you can guarantee that I know my way from here to there like the back of my hand with the number of times I’ve driven it since I got my license. Distance is just a minor detail in today’s society with facetime and texting not a day goes by that you guys don’t talk.
You will always have someone in your corner no matter what. Whether its family related or friend, she will always have your back. And that ex-boyfriend that hurt you? It’s not mom or dad they should be afraid of hating them, it’s her. She knows every detail, every heartbreak and peak of your relationship and will do anything it takes to make sure he knows that it wasn’t okay.
They’re the most loyal friend you will ever have. They won’t leave you out there on your own and will be there at the drop of a hat when you need them, no questions asked. You know who your maid of honor will be, you know who the godmother of your children will be because there’s no one else you could imagine it being. She’s the one who was there from your first boyfriend up until now, and everything in between. She’ll listen to your stories and follow along with the names of people she’s never met giving you the advice you need.
As we’ve grown up we’ve moved to different states, but our relationship has remained just as close if not closer. You both appreciate the time you do have together and the bond you have, knowing it’s one you’ll never find anywhere else. You’ve remained attached at the hip throughout the years through the family losses, the moves and the life changes and if that doesn’t say something, I don’t know what does. She’s the ying to my yang, my partner in crime, my best friend and my blood all in one and I could never ask for more.
