Growing up with divorced parents provided me with an unbelievable amount of support. People really do step up when they are most needed. Looking back on my three-year-old self growing to the woman I am today, I must take the time to thank all of those wonderful women who were not legally or biologically responsible for my sister or me but treated us as their own from Day One.
Yes, many of these women helped my dad by babysitting and wrapping presents, providing us with a gift to present on Father's Day, or simply opening their homes to meals that would be shared by many. However, there were quite a few ladies who made a profound impact from my mother's side. Her friends were always over the house and their presence simply could not be overlooked. They always included us to family dinners, showed up at cheerleaders at our games, and invited us over to swim in their pool and hot tub. As I reminisce on these common events, I am warmed by the thought of their thoughtfulness. Never once did my parents have to ask for support or help. These women never missed a beat, they thought ahead and planned miraculously.
To my babysitter, next door neighbor and role model: Thank you for continuing our relationship for 20 years. There are not many people who have known me for the entirety of my life, outside of family. Your support and advice has stayed with my and I always know you are willing to talk, vent, and laugh with me. Thank you for entrusting me as the babysitter for your kids. There is something so undeniably special about those little ones that I cannot stand it!
To my mom's best friend: Thank you for being my mom's person. I know she can count on you for anything. You always know what to say and have so many ideas. Your positivity has kept us going on countless occasions and your wild, creative, beautiful self has shown us how a friend can become a sister.
To my sister: Thank you for being my best friend, twin, mini-mom, and hero. Thank you for being a strong, independent woman who isn't afraid to be herself in any way! I am astounded by your undying persistence. I do not know anyone else to never give up on what they want. Somehow, you find a way every single time. Not many people are this successful by 23!
To my aunt: I'm pretty much at a loss of words for you, Auntie. You have been a guiding force forever and I am so thankful for your guidance, friendship, and hysterical snapchats. I know that I have the coolest aunt ever. From Red Sox games and concerts to breakfast dates, and summer rides to the creamery in the convertible with the dog drooling on me, you've always brought the fun! I know that I can count on you no matter what. You help in my job search, always text me back, and check in at all of the right times. Plus, you know the coolest spots in the area. You have helped my sister and me more than you can imagine and we are forever thankful that you're dad's little sister.
To my mom: No, you're not a surrogate in any way. You're 100 percent the real thing and I have your hair to prove it. There is not another woman in the world that could take your place. You truly are wonder woman and I am amazed by you every day. Thank you for setting standards and examples for us to follow. I am a go-getter and planner because of you. Thank you for being the cool mom and taking in my friends as your own. I think they come over 90 percent of the time to hang out with you and 10 percent for me. Thank you for teaching us to never give up, based on your example. But most importantly, thank you for loving Disney World as much as I do and for getting excited about all of the little, very important things.
We all have these women in our lives. Although their titles may be different, we all know the strong, encouraging, impactful women who have made our lives more full, happy, and meaningful. So whoever just popped into your head, shoot them a text, call, or walk into the other room and thank them for everything they do, for being their beautiful, wonderful selves.
