For Good.

Because I couldn't say it any better... I have to quote Wicked. Favorite Musical of all time.

Who can say if I've been changed for the better?
Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.

So much of me is made from what I learned from you.
You'll be with me like a handprint on my heart.
And now whatever ways our stories end, I know you have rewritten mine by being my friend.

The four of us: solid sisters.

Some people in this world are lucky enough to have friends they call family. Family instead of friends. I cannot remember the last time I did not refer to Kelli or Kimberly Straub as a sister of mine. Sophia, Kelli, Kimberly, and I have been inseparable since we were so young. There was never an activity I did without Kelli and whenever we were apart, it was always like something was missing. The four of us have been a unit, a sold group of sisters for as long as I can remember. We have seen each other at our best and we have been there for each other during our very hardest times. I am at a loss for words at what to say about these girls. To say the least, I know I would not be who I am right now today if it hadn't been for having these sisters in my life. And as I am sitting here with my bags packed, it is this group I am thinking of and tearing up as I think about leaving them. It is this group that I remember pushing me to go and serve. It is this group that constantly encourages me everyday to be better. It is THIS GROUP that loves me unconditionally. And for that, they deserve a shout out.

Kelli and I

Our favorite place: Cocktails and Canvas!

Kelli, with her huge heart for people. Nobody would believe me if I told them that in Kindergarten when we first became friends she was probably one of the shyest people ever. My how she has changed. Now,  I know that when I am with her, I will always be entertained by never ending story telling and conversation. I remember sleepovers where we would stay up and talk until the both of us would fall asleep.. well we would always have to make fun of Kimberly grinding her teeth before we fell asleep of course. Kelli and I have not been at the same school since 5th grade but have still remained the closest of friends. That says something right there. We were always making time for each other during school and got to escape from our school life right to each other. Now, I go to Kelli for almost everything and would not have it any other way. I have a friend I know I can call or stop by at any hour of the day/night and she will be there. She is my best friend. The sister I love just as if she is my sister by blood.

With Kimberly in the Fall 2010

Kimberly, such a rock. I have seen Kimberly grow up since she was so little. She has grown into such a beautiful, confident, smart young lady and I am so proud to call her a sister of mine. Kimberly keeps us sane. With her intelligence through the roof, she always adds the brains to the conversations. She outshines us in just about every way, but she would never say that. She will be a Senior in the Fall and I cannot believe this. Her sweet spirit is so uplifting to the group and she looks out for all of us. This girl has got it all. And now that we are looking at colleges for her, it blows my mind that she has grown up so fast. She is always so supportive when we talk about things going on in your lives and always stands up for her friends.

At Sophia's Graduation Party!

Now, my bags are packed. Ready to go. And leaving for training in Dallas in just a couple of hours!