Dear best friend's family,

No, we aren't related by blood. But over the last 15 years, you have become my family. You're my siblings, and my second set of parents. The relationship I have with you guys is something I will always cherish and I have always realized how lucky I am to have you.

As an only child, you filled the lonely times with your big family. I either stole your youngest daughter (at the time), or you guys got stuck with me. As your family grew, so did mine. You guys became my mom and dad's best friend, and the people who made my life a heck of a lot crazier.

When I moved away, I always thought I would lose you guys. Everyone said I wouldn't, but as a 10-year-old leaving almost all of her family except her parents, there wasn't much to say that could convince me.

But you guys were still my family. You still called me on my birthday. I came back to visit so much that first year, it felt like I still lived at home.

Your family has helped me through some of my hardest times. I always knew that I had a whole other family just a phone call away, in addition to the one I was born into.

Sometimes, it's hard to remember a time when you weren't in my life. Almost all of my memories have at least two members of your family in them.

As I sit here, living closer to you guys than I have in almost nine years, I realize just how luck I am.

I have two families. Two families that love and support me and are such a humongous part of my life.

So, to the family that I was destined to find, thank you.

Love,

Your Extra Kid.