day 10

dear kari,

you’ve been holding down the kiddy table with me at family holidays since we were born… exactly 6 months apart. it has been an absolute pleasure growing up alongside you and watching you develop into such a stunning woman and mother.

i am grateful…

1. that we were born exactly six months apart and basically are the same person
2. except that i will always be younger than you (you’re old)
3. for the childhood video of us shaking our sillies out together
4. that we learned to make ice cream together
5. that the fire only affected your arm, and not your life
6. for the endless love you give everyone you come into contact with
7. that you found a man to love you so deeply
8. that you and gary were able to take a vacation and come visit me in hawaii
9. for the thoughtful things you do completely unprompted, like drawing me a bath (complete with candles and relaxing music) after a long day of travel and family time
10. that your son and stepchildren look up to me and are so fun
11. for aunt beth and uncle scott raising you however they did to make you turn out so lovely
12. that you gave birth to tavyne and have raised him with such strong values
13. and that i guessed the exact date on which he was to be born (and pretending to be pregnant as well…)
    
14. that you have always taken care of our grandparents
15. for the fact that i can still kick your kids’ butts at any dance video game
16. for your ability to remain calm in the face of chaos
17. that you correct people’s grammar as much as i do (lovingly, of course)
18. that you didn’t light your face on fire when you couldn’t blow out your s’more marshmallow
19. for always making me feel so special
20. that you found a job you enjoy and excel at
21. that despite the distance between us, we still manage to stay close
22. for the love and understanding you show your mother (and my mother) during rough times
23. that you make me laugh by doing things like wearing a million layers while working out
24. that you continue to explore your faith and find what works for you
25. for your incredible strength and ability to overcome adversity
26. that you wear grandma’s old sweatshirts with pride
27. that i always know i have a bed and am welcome in your home
28. and that tavyne will make me breakfast
29. for your incredible listening skills
30. that i have a cousin that i am lucky enough to call one of my best friends