Dear famiglia,

We have been through so much together, especially this past week, and I just want to say thank you for being my family.

Our family has been through hell and back, and sometimes I’m surprised that we even still like each other, but we always get through it. We laugh, we cry, and we fight, but we have a true bond that nothing can explain other than love.

From the giggles at camp to the tears at a funeral, we stand by one another and I couldn’t ask for anything better.

Thank you for being there when I need to talk and being patient when I don’t want to. You are my support system and never leave me behind like I have been so many times before, without you, I’d be lost.

Thank you for making me laugh when I feel like my world is falling apart. Although sometimes your humor is too much for me, you can always put a smile on my face. I’m still not sure why you like to push my buttons so bad, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Thank you for always making sure I have food and am eating enough. Sometimes I hate you for it because I think I gain five pounds every holiday, but its definitely worth it.

Our traditions mean the world to me; tissues on the table at holidays, throwing rolls across the table, pumpkin carving contest, and so many more. People think we are nuts when I tell them about the things that are normal to us, like the science of moving and cleaning the glass on the table without anyone saying a word.

I cherish our memories every day. Every stick we picked up from Nanie’s yard, every berry we picked for a pie, every laugh we shared, will never be forgotten to me.

Thank you for loving me every day (even though you have to) and thank you for being my family.

We may be crazy, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

I love you all,

Shawna