My sister.

For some reason, I never got a sister growing up. I always wanted one (even though my friends said I was lucky since I didn't have to share all my clothes), and it wasn't until I married Caleb that I finally got my wish!

Caleb's brother was dating Erin, and we met back in 2009! We took those first few months to get to know each other and chat occasionally, but we really solidified our friendship over the next year or so. It came so naturally; we always had something to talk about, and quickly realized we could communicate with just a look. We basically spent everyday at work on g-chat and never ran out of things to say. How does that happen!? ;)

I could write out every memory stored up in my brain and it would probably take months, so I won't do that...but I thought I WOULD share a few... like the time we recreated a dance photo at each of our weddings just so we could have a side by side ;)

...or the time we planned a couples trip and spent the BEST week in Punta Cana together!

...or the time we finished running our first half marathon together hand in hand!

...or the time we spent probably 8-10 hours making the most ridiculous "wax paper chandelier"...this craft was probably not worth the time it took to complete, BUT having something to focus on while we chatted until the late hours of the night? Totally worth it.

or the time you kept me fed all wedding day, helped everything to go smoothly, and looked at me at the reception and said "we're finally family!", and we shared a tear filled hug.

Honestly, it's hard these days to find someone you can truly be yourself with. Someone you trust with either the biggest news or the most embarrassing secrets. Someone you can go to for advice and not feel judged. Someone you can laugh with over absolutely nothing. Someone who gets excited about the same things in life (like clearance candles, puzzle races, and birthdays!). Someone who will rush over when you need a tight hug or just want to make a good batch of buffalo chicken dip. Someone who would answer the phone at 2:00 AM even though she's probably insanely tired from constantly being a rockstar mom/wife. Someone who you look up to in so many ways, and know that they'll ALWAYS be there.

Erin! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! Words cannot accurately describe our sisterhood, but I'm so thankful for it! You're so encouraging and I'm proud to call you my friend. God sure knew what he was doing putting us (and the guys) into each others lives, and I'm excited for all the fun that lies ahead in our future! You're one of the best friends I've ever had and I'm thankful you're stuck with me forever. I hope you have an AMAZING 30th birthday...you absolutely deserve it!  Love you! Lets celebrate!! <3