Loving Lisa is easy. I have always loved her. Lisa Dawn Johnson is my aunt. She has always been a significant part of my life. We spent a lot of time together over the years. She and I are very close. I definitely see how knowing her has helped mold me into the independent strong woman I am today. She is that way. She has a strong work ethic, is an amazing leader, wonderful writer, has taught me so much about God, has given me advice like I am her own daughter, has taken me on trips, has spoiled me. I have numerous memories with her. I'm the daughter she never had. I've always looked up to her. She is such a kind, generous, loving person. I'm fortunate enough to call her my aunt.

Lisa,

Thank you for everything. You have been there for me through everything. You have helped me escape some pretty rough patches. You have encouraged me to wait, for so many things. Knowing me, I am not patient but I have learned waiting is always worth it. You've taught me how to be a good steward of God. We have to rely on Him for strength and wisdom. We know that nothing would be possible without God and His grace. We are so blessed.

Thank you for making sure I knew how valuable I am. I was so used to mediocre, to just settling. With your persistence as well as God's unending love, I was able to see myself as a rare beauty. I am unique and created in His image. So are you. You are beautiful, you are worthy, and you will always be loved. Don't worry...I will be there for you when you become unable. When I was unable, you were there for me. You led me. You took hold of me and made sure I was safe from the world. You showed me why we should set ourselves apart from it. You have worried about me often, you have prayed for me, you have tried to give me advice when I was too stubborn to follow it. Most of all, though, you haven't failed me. Amongst our busy lives, you still care and you still keep me in the know. We have shared many secrets over the years. I am glad you have been able to confide in me.

You have always been fun. From Silver Lake, to beach trips, to sleepovers, to movies, there hasn't been a time when we didn't make the most of a situation. I've had some of my best times working for you or hanging at the office. Going on food runs has been fun too. You also know how to make a stressful situation entertaining. You have come to realize that having me grow up has been great and an adjustment but you know I'll always be your little "Lizzie Bear." You used to dress me in cute dresses and had me wear that State cheerleading outfit. Maybe I should start pulling for the Wolfpack again.

Little did I know, the years would slip by. It seems like just yesterday we were at Minosot Beach. Hey, life is always better at the beach. Or hey...how about when Dakota and I picked out the hotel? Motel I think it was. Ahh, memories. I've realized memories are the most sustainable thing we have in life. There is nothing like looking back at the good times, bad times, and everything in between. You've always known how to make light of a bad situation. You also know how to tell it like it is. You've always been that way.

I will always be there for you. Since I've been in college, we haven't been able to see each other as much. You should know, though, that I think of you often and cannot wait to see you again. We have to make some plans for this summer. I loved you then, I love you now, I always will.

And you can cook. I know you're busy but when you cook, I enjoy it. Nothing like Rice Krispy Treats or cole slaw. You're one of a kind. Your love for people, for life, is captivating. You are motivated and an individual. A strong woman.

Sweet tea. There's nothing like it. You are I share that love. We share a lot of interests. We are similar people. We like being tan. You definitely tan better than me. :) We love our donuts too. Krispy Kreme hot light is the best.

Thanks for it all. For your love, your encouragement, your friendship, your advice, your boldness, your food, the carefree person you are. You are such a free spirit. I think I got a lot of that from you. You have the ability to just pick up and go. We love spontaneous trips. I cannot wait to make more memories. We never can make enough. I love you more than you know.

Love Always,

Elizabeth (Lizzie Bear)