The Rest of My Family

I just want to take some time right now to share about the rest of my family - the family I knew before Charlie. What can I say? My mom and dad have been so great to me. They have always been so supportive of my every want and need. No matter how much trouble I caused (which wasn't much), they still stood by me. They would go out of their way to meet the needs of my picky eating...cutting up my meat, driving to two different fast food restaurants because I would only eat McDonald's fries. When I didn't understand a project, Dad would go out of his way to help build it, sometimes even doing it for me! Mom put up with so much with me. She took me to the doctor for just about everything out there, just in case something really was wrong with me. And when I really did have a problem, they did not leave my side; even now as an adult. These are just a few examples of the things my wonderful parents did for me. Thanks so much for all that you have done and continue to do for me. I love you!

My parents weren't the only ones to take care of me. My sister and best friend, April, did more for me than I will ever really know. Being 10 years older, she had the ability to do things with and for me that most siblings could not do. She would give me baths growing up, feed me dinner, and even let me sneak into her bed every night for what seemed like an entire year when I couldn't sleep. Even though we didn't live in the same state for 8 years, our relationship never fell apart. In fact, I think it got stronger. She has always been my life line. I could always count on her for anything, even if it was just to talk and vent or get mommy advice. April, you mean the world to me. I love you!

And last but not least, I can't forget Coryn, my baby sister. Coryn and I were not always the best of friends. We were very typical siblings who were always out to get each other. But I don't think our relationship would be what it is today without those moments. We've learned and grew from our experiences as kids. Looking back I see how special our good times were. We had each other on vacations and when we were lonely at home looking for a friend to play with. But I have to say holidays were probably some of my favorite memories with Coryn. I will always remember Christmas of '88. Thinking back to those moments helps to strenghten our relationship now and I believe we have grown to be best friends. I am so proud of Coryn for all that she has become. I'm so glad I get to be the big sister to her and be there for her. I know she's always here for me as well. Thank you Coryn, for being you. I love you!

I feel that I should mention two other very important people in my life, my nephews, Jack (8) and Jamie (5). These little guys have taught me how to be a parent. I was so lucky to be able to spend so much time with them as they grow. I loved taking them to theme parks and just being Aunt Erin. I would do anything for them. I love them as if they were my own children, and sometimes I have to remind myself that they're not. If I could keep them forever I would. Jack and Jamie, I love you so much!

I feel so lucky to be able to say that I have two parents who will drop everything for me, two sisters who I can say are my best and closest friends, and two nephews who have taught me about patience and parenting. Now I'm married with two wonderful babies. What more can anyone ask for?