To my best friend's family,

It feels like forever since I was invited into your home for the first time and you let me in with open arms. I didn't know what to expect or if you would like me or not, but the result was something I didn't even expect. I cannot thank you enough for that. You made me feel as though your home was my home away from home. Thank you so much for making me not only feel like a guest but also part of the family.

I wanted to say thank you. Thank you so much for raising the caring, mindful, beautiful person that you did. I don't think I would be in the same place I am today without them. They impacted my life in a huge way, making me a better person and being there for me no matter what. I know in my heart that no matter what, our friendship will never go away. I am so grateful to have found my best friend, and to have met such great people along with them.

Thank you for being there for me when I need advice, whether it's something I don't feel comfortable telling my own parents right away, or if I just need to talk, you're always there to listen. I consider you both to be my second parents because of how you treat me. I am treated with such love and respect at your house that I feel as though I am not only your child's best friend, but that I am your child too.

Thank you for doing all the countless things you've done for me, I can't thank you enough for that. Whether it's paying for dinner, or just putting up with our bad eating habits at you house, I wanted to say thank you. I'm sorry for eating a bunch of your food while I'm there... Sometimes I forget that even though I feel as though I'm at my own house, I'm not and should be more considerate. I wish I could repay you for all the things you've done, but I know you'll always say "your company is enough." I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate that.

Thank you for always including me. That's one thing I never need to worry about and I appreciate it so much. I never feel out of place, because you are constantly checking on me and making sure I feel included. I can't think of one instance where I have actually felt misplaced or awkward at your house because I know that even if my best friend is doing something, I can come to you and I'll be welcomed.

Thank you for letting them be my best friend. Thank you for always forgiving me when we get caught doing something stupid, thank you for never holding a grudge, and thank you for always making sure I know I'm still part of the family. No matter what happens, I know that you'll still be there with open arms.

Thank you for not only allowing my best friend to be part of my family but also for allowing me to be a part of yours. My family had no choice in accepting me, but you accepted me with all my flaws. I love that I feel part of the family, and I hope that no matter what that never goes away. I will always remember and cherish the memories you have given me because those are the moments that have shaped me into the person I am today. You have given me this confidence outside of my family that there are loving caring people in the world. I honestly believe that I was destined to have met your child and be a part of your family.

Thank you for everything,

Your "other" child