To my oddly wonderful family,

First of all, you guys are crazy. Insane, maybe. But in my humble opinion, I think that’s what makes you guys so great. Your craziness has shaped me into the person I am today, and I want to thank you guys for that.

I’m beyond lucky to have you all for so many reasons. For one, I know that I never have to hide who I am when I’m around all of you. You all encourage me to be my best self, and don’t judge me when you see me at my worst. I know that’s what family is for, but still. Not everyone is as lucky as I am to have the support system that I do, and I promise that I won’t ever take that for granted.

Thank you for asking me annoying questions. I know you guys only mean well, even if I do roll my eyes. I know this is just another subtle way of how you all show your love for me and how we all show it for each other. The next time you guys ask me where I’m going or who I’m hanging out with, I’ll be sure to keep this in mind.

Thank you for pushing me to do things. If it weren’t for all of you, I would probably still be a shy, quiet person who would never want to do anything (and yes, Mom, thanks for forcing me to take piano lessons even though I complained about it 24/7). You have all shown me that there is so much to discover in the world. I don’t even know how I begin to show how thankful I am for that.

Thank you for not spoiling me (or at least not too much). Thank you for telling me “no” when I had to hear it, and for putting your foot down. You could have given in. I could tell there were times where you really didn’t want to put your foot down, but you stuck with your gut and did it anyway. I know I wasn’t grateful at the time, but I am now.

Thank you for always knowing exactly what to say. There have been plenty of times where I’ve had to seek your advice, and it has never steered me wrong. Not even once. How do you guys manage to do that? It’s incredible, I swear. I always feel way better when I open up to any of you, and that’s a wonderful way to feel.

Last but not least, thank you for giving me my sense of humor. I have you guys to thank for my love of stupid jokes. Even if I say the stupidest things, you guys will all laugh and go along with it. You’re all pretty cool for that.

I swear, you guys never cease to amaze me. Thanks for being my original squad. When I’m with you all, there’s never a dull moment. I’d be pretty lame if it weren’t for you guys. (Just kidding, I would still be awesome.)

Love,

Your equally crazy and insane daughter and sister