One of the biggest blessings of joining this new family has been gaining two incredible sisters, Cienna and Ashley. From the moment we met, everything just clicked. We’re so alike in so many ways, and when we’re together, it feels like everything just fits perfectly. They’ve truly completed me, and I’m so grateful for the love, laughter, and friendship we share.

Chelsea has been my sister for over 15 years! She is the sister who taught me what it means to be a sister. She’s been there for me through every up and down, always matching my vibes and filling my life with joy, laughter, love, and fun. She’s someone one I can lean on, and her friendship continues to be a source of strength and happiness. I’m so lucky to have her by my side, always bringing light into my life.

Laarni is the kind of friend who inspires me every day. She’s kind, quirky, creative, and incredibly hardworking—someone I truly aspire to be more like. Her intentionality and calming presence make her a joy to be around, and she’s always willing to show up for the people she loves, no matter what. I’m so grateful to have her in my life.

Alyssa is a true blessing in my life, shining her light through so many seasons. From growing up in the same church to sharing college, post-grad, and camp memories, she’s been there for it all. She has a gift with words, always ready with encouragement, and her contagious smile and laugh can brighten anyone’s day. Hilarious and full of creativity, she always knows how to make the most of every moment. I’m so grateful for her joy and friendship.

Gabi is my soul sister—I've never met anyone with the exact same sense of humor as me until I met her. From the moment we met we clicked INSTANTLY. She knows literally everything about me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Gabi is both my confidant and little sister all wrapped into one. I just love her so much! (She's also the funniest person EVER)

Chey and I were always around each other but didn’t really hang out until the summer of 2022—the same summer I met Trenton. At camp, she joked about me moving into her spare room, and, well, jokes on her because I’ve been living with her for the past two years! It’s been such a blessing getting to live with and grow with her. She’s a steadying presence in my life, a source of peace who truly embodies all things cozy. One of the best unexpected gifts God has given me.

Carolyna and I became friends in the teaching department at Southern, and we quickly hit it off, hanging out and working on homework and projects together. She’s incredibly talented, caring, and passionate, showing others a love like Jesus. Carolyna has been with me through all the ups and downs of teaching, and it’s so great to have someone who truly gets it—and gets me!

Guillian has been my greatest support over the past few years. She encourages my big dreams, listens, prays with me, and is always honest with me. She’s someone I can trust completely, whether I need advice or just a good laugh. Plus, she’s my biggest thrifty and curly girl inspiration!

Sammie is such a ball of light, joy, and sisterly love. From the moment I met her, I knew she was special! She has a way of making everyone around her feel seen, welcome, and loved. As we’ve gotten to know each other, we’ve realized just how alike we are in so many ways (LOL). She’s the friend my heart was missing until I found her—a straight-up blessing!

One of life's greatest blessings is having an older brother to guide me, put me in my place, and nurture my love of competition. Trace has been one of my bastions of safety since day one. So many things that I enjoy are because of him. Sports, music, films, books, and more! He's always been the first to support me and the last to leave. He and I never had a choice in whether or not we loved each other, but we did have a choice in whether we liked each other. I am glad to say I like him a lot.

Talk about destiny. I don't think I had a choice in becoming friends with Jacob. It was going to happen one way or another. A brother from another mother is the closest yet most incomplete way of explaining it. We have been through it all, from toddlers crying on planes to getting in car wrecks together. Life might have moved on, but my admiration and love for such a talented and driven individual has not. He is the yin to my yang. No words can describe my love and appreciation for him.

I have never had a friendship that I have been more sure of God's hand being involved. I met Elias on the first day of my first year in university and never saw him again until we both individually decided to become student missionaries. We also decided to go to the same location. I praise God that we did because my life has become so enriched and full having him be a part of it. He will always have a plan, approaching problems with a curious mind. Elias is as talented as kind, and I look up to him in many ways.

What do you get when you have a guy pushing 315 on bench and from Chicago. A hulk of a teddy bear yelling, "Bear down!!!" Some friendships click, and the bromance was strong when I met AJ in university. Late night 2k, working out, Intramurals, birthday parties, and so much more, we have been making memories for life. AJ has only brought big hugs and an even bigger heart. With a laugh that can cause anybody to crack a smile and a bean dip that is as deadly as tasty, AJ is phenomenal and a brother for life. 

Having someone who is always in your corner, has your back, and is ready to toe the line when you falter is special. That is Logan. From the basketball court to the soccer pitch, and in life, he is always there for me. To see how much our relationship has grown from the first semester of the first year of high school to now is incredible. Logan and I have made some dumb decisions, but I am grateful we were in it together and not alone. Loyalty and Love start with L, and Logan does too. I could not give you the moment or date we became friends during our first year of high school. It could be when I randomly show up to his room and crash on his lounge chair for the night or early morning PE with Coach Busche. From the academy to now, my friendship with Daniel will always stand the test of time, from competing in basketball tournaments to staying up to ungodly hours at his house over the summer. Daniel is diligent, intentional, and caring. I am privileged to have him by my side.

It is hard to remember when Seth was not in my life. I have known my brother-in-law since the 7th grade, and he has seen me in every stage of my life. The stories he has on me could topple nations. I can never thank him enough for taking the heat from the family off my back and allowing me to covertly continue my antics. He is a true connoisseur of living in the moment and going on adventures. I have always appreciated how much he has led by example, being a steady older brother and setting my path straight on more than one occasion. I never knew my family was missing a piece until my sister brought him home. The best brother a sister could choose.

Eric is the number one yes-man and adventure buddy. If you have thought about doing something unusual, chances are Eric has beat you to it. Eric taught me how to work hard and have fun while doing it. On top of always bringing the fun, he has also brought so much wisdom to my life. He can make any time a good time, even when you would least expect it. Definitely look for him on the dance floor. He is more than a cousin; he is a brother who taught me to send it and ask questions later.

Our history may be short, but it is rich with escapades and stories. Andre is one of the catalysts for Astrid and my relationship. He sacrificed his own shoulder for our love. He is always one to laugh and team up with me to pick on Astrid. To a long future of even more stories and calling him nephew.