A Friend Worth Finding

When I moved home at the end of this summer, I was wondering what the heck I was getting myself into. During the past few weeks, I have realized that so many good things have come from this decision. However, there is one reason that has had the biggest impact on my life so that's the one I thought I'd share.

Ever since I can remember, my little sister has always been around. I don't remember a time when she wasn't my best friend. We did EVERYTHING together. With her help, I have made it to where I am today. I've never had such a loyal friend; someone who'd stand by me with such selflessness.To this day, we are still closer
than anything.











I
love
her
more
than
life
itself.

When I was 6, a new member was added into our family.

I was SO excited! In fact, I remember being so stoked that I actually threw up all over the hospital for hours... (the emotions in our family run a little high.... and sorry for the visual, but it's true). I finally had a little brother!

I feel bad that the truth is as we were growing up, Tanner and I were never as close as Lauren and I were. We like to get on each others nerves quite a bit and we're pretty good at it too. However, these past few weeks have been an incredible eye-opening experience for me. I came to the realization that the wall in our relationship was only put up by me and I was the one who had to take it down. I never knew that my biggest regret would be right in front of me for nearly 15 years.

Tan, I owe you a huge apology. Anyone who knows Tanner also knows that he is the MOST LOVEABLE person in the entire world! When I think of all the words that describe my little bro, not a single bad thing pops into my head. He is caring, loving, hysterical, helpful, friendly, respectful, nice, smart, loyal and so many other things!

I have thought a lot about who plays which roles in our family. Dad has always been the thinker. He's the brain and the head of the house. (Even if he says mom is the boss... ha). Without him, we wouldn't be anywhere. Without him, our motivation and drive to succeed would be lost. Mom has always been the "glue." She's what holds us together. She keeps us strong in hard times. She keeps us close when we're physically far. Lauren is the "doer." She gets set in a course and glides right through to the finish line. She is basically the arms and legs of the family; always encouraging us to do the right thing, even if it's hard. She's there to give you a hug even if it's over the phone. All of these roles are so important but none would work without Tanner, the heart of our family. I always joke with him that he's mom and dad's favorite, but the truth is- he's everyone's favorite. One of the definitions I found for heart is "the vital or essential part, the core." He really keeps us going. We love you Tan Man! I am the luckiest person in the world to be a part of this.

I am so grateful that I came home this one last time so that I could find one of the best friends I'll ever have. Tan, thanks for being patient with me while I figured it out. I'm glad we're "roomies" again. You have been one of the greatest blessings I have in my life, so don't ever forget it!

If you don't know this guy, you are really missing out. When you get to know him, you will have a best friend for life, I promise.