A family is one of life’s greatest blessings, so I consider myself extremely blessed to be a part of two. There is no way I could ever thank you enough for being my “second” family. You may not be my family by blood, but you are my family by choice. You have given me advice, even when it was hard to hear, and have loved me through every circumstance that came my way. You have smiled with me during the highs of my life and cried with me through the lows. At times in my life, you have been my safe haven, my refuge, and my escape. Without realizing it, you have made an unforgettable impact on my life. I have watched you navigate difficult situations and have learned from your examples. I have seen you endure hard times, sickness, and loss, but despite the pain and the hurt, it only made you all stronger. You have loved me as one of your own, and for that, I could not be more thankful. I have been shown an example of true, unconditional love, and it will never be forgotten.

I will always be thankful for meeting my best friend because a much greater gift came with her. Your family has been God's gift to me. He knew that at times I would need a place to stay or open arms to run to, and He blessed me with you. He knew there would be times where I would be lost and need direction and guidance. You have provided me with that and much, much more. The dictionary defines a family as two or more persons related through bloodline or by marriage. My definition of a family is different because of you. To me, family isn't always blood. Family doesn't have to be biological. Family is the people in your life who accept you for who you are, love you unconditionally, and who will always hold a special place in your heart. I will never be able to repay you for what you have unknowingly given to me. Thank you for the many memories, the smiles, the laughs, and even just the simple nights spent together at your home. They have meant more to me than you will ever know.

I am so grateful that you have been a part of my journey, and have allowed me to be a part of yours as well. No matter where this life takes us, I hope that I will always hold a special place in all of your hearts because you certainly will in mine. You all are the reason that I am where I am today. You have done so much more for me than open the doors of your home. You have changed and shaped my life for the better. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you for being my additional home, my support system, and most of all my "second" family.