To My Second Family,

As I begin to write this, I realize I am basically the “Kimmy Gibbler” of your family. I look back with nostalgia and gratitude for all the times you were there for me, for forever naming a bed “my bed” when I sleepover, for having the kitchen stocked so I can stuff my face whenever I want and for letting me barge in through the front door without invitation, loudly announcing my arrival and interrupting whatever you are doing at the time.

To my second (but cooler) parents; there are so many times I’ve sped over to your house in my car after trying to get out of my own home; you are always so welcoming. Thank you for letting me past the "doorbell stage" of friendship and into the “I live here, too” stage-- walking right in and giving me the best greeting of hugs and kisses I could ask for. Thank you for treating me like your second, third, fourth or even fifth child by either making me laugh until I can’t breathe or, on the other hand, telling me to shut up because we’re being too loud when you’re trying to watch “Making A Murderer.” Also, a huge shout-out to you for the fact that my clothes that I left there the day before get washed. And, of course, again for the free food.

To my best friend’s siblings; thank you for being the little/older brother/sister I’ve never had. Thank you for always making me jealous of you for wanting to be in your family and being higher on my Snapchat list than my actual best friend. Thanks for allowing me to boss you around just like I was your own sibling-- and never holding back a response. I also appreciate the times you showed me ugly pictures of my best friend that I'll now use for blackmail. In addition, I would also like to apologize for that one time I saw you naked and the other times when I walked in on you on the toilet. At the same time, I'm sorry I didn’t take a picture. But hey, this only further proves that "su casa es mi casa."

We’re even at the point where any extended family member of yours is a family member of mine, and your dog or cat is basically mine, so thanks for all the cuddles and warm snuggles.

There are so many things that I owe to you all as a family. You always manage to brighten my day when you brag to my own mother and father about me. I appreciate all the times I was invited to special holidays, big dinners and birthdays that take on in your home. But most of all, most of all thank you for being home base for my friends and me.

As former American Idol winner Phillip Phillips once said, “’Cause I’m gonna make this place your home,” thank you for making your place my home.

Love Always,

Me