If you knew me while I was growing up, you would've known me as the quiet little girl, who was loud once you got to know her, but who was used to playing by herself. 19 years ago, my parents decided to have me, but unfortunately I was not blessed with a sibling (I really wanted a baby sister) to grow up and play with. It wasn't until I was a little older than any kind of "sister" figure came into my life. After spending time with them over the years, it's safe to say three girls have made the transition from step-sisters to my actual sisters.

As a product of a divorce, my hope of ever having a brother or sister was dashed at the young age of 3. Two years later, my mother met the love of her life, who just so happened to have a daughter of his own. It took almost all of elementary school for us to become good friends, but once we did there was no stopping us. From late night trips to the Meadows, to Bilo runs for Peace Tea, to getting lunch or our adventures as authors when we were young; there isn't anyone else I would have rather grown up alongside. Now that we are both in college, we rarely get to see each other any more, which makes me really sad. As I think about it, you are working incredibly hard to fulfill your dreams, and I couldn't be more proud of you for that. Thank you for putting up with me calling you my "little sister" all these years (even if you truly are). I love you Kissy, and I hope to see you soon.

About 6 years ago, my father met my future step-mother, and his wife-to-be had two girls, which was even better for me because I would be living with them. We had a rocky start, everyone was testing each others limits and picking on each other, which was new for me cause I was used to being on my own. Over the years we've gotten closer, and I've seen them both grow up into great young ladies, even if we do scare the pee out of each other, literally. I'll never forget wrestling, swimming, board games, the wooden spoon, bocce ball, vacations and so many other great memories we've created over the past years. I couldn't have gotten any luckier than being able to grow up with these two crazy kids. I love you both and I can't wait to see you on Monday.

Some people are lucky enough to have a brother or sister, and then they get to grow up together, I wasn't that lucky. After a few years, lots of memories and even some bad times, I've grown to love these three girls like they were my own sisters. They've always been there to give me advice, help me through rough times and even be my shoulder to cry on when I need it. I couldn't imagine living my life without them in it, and even though we aren't blood related, these three amazing girls will be my sisters forever. With them, I'll finally get to become an aunt (which has always been a dream of mine), so don't disappoint me girls. Kristina, Mara, and Kendal: thank you all so much for the laughs and the memories we've shared over the years. I love all three of you so much, and thanks for being my little sisters.