Anna is quite literally the Ariel to my Ursula. We’ve been at the same school from elementary to high school, and she was the Ugly Step-Sister to my Wicked Step-Mother in our school’s musical, Cinderella. We have written books together, bonded over painful Honors classes, and talked deep into theology over our love of Christ and His church. We share passionate love for Christ, building His kingdom, and wanting Godly families. Plus, she makes me laugh the most (look at my quote book for proof!). Anna is one of my absolute best friends!

Of all the brothers I have, Bennett is the one with whom I’ve fought the most, by far. This is because we’re very similar in almost every aspect - which, inevitably, led to competition. But as I’ve grown alongside him, as iron has sharpened iron, he’s become one of the most amazing men I know.

Sarah is my spiritual mentor, but once upon a time, she was my 7th grade P.E. teacher. She was always passionate, energetic, and encouraging. Sarah and my Mom became best friends, and I started getting to know her personally when she came to our lake house for boat days! She moved to my high school Guidance Counselor, so I called her my School Mamma because I was always welcome in her office for happy news or crying days. Even though we are a decade apart in age, our love of Christ and of people make us like family!

When I think of the word “friend,” Josh’s is the first face I picture. He has an uncanny way with words, whether they are put together in song, in jest, or in truth. He and I have seen each other through the hardest times in our lives, and come out the other side stronger together.

In life, we can’t choose family, but we can choose friends. However, my big cousin is both my family and my friend. GiAnna held me in the hospital when I was born, and she is there for me in ways I imagine a big sister would be. Her shenanigans always make me giggle. For every softball tournament, every winter ice cream run, every talk about boys, and every conversation about God, GiAnna is one of my cherished friends!

Isaåc is my longest tenured friend with whom I do not share blood, and that is for good reason. His enthusiasm is infectious and bountiful, and I am always grateful for his words of wisdom, whether they be serious or not. He’s also a crack shot in Halo.

Sammi is my life-long friend, literally. We started at the same softball team as 6-year olds and continued to the K-12 school. We had Jesus talks on the softball field and giggled over books in the study. During my toughest years, she was always by my side to encourage me and remind me “it’s all Jesus, man.” She is one of the most Godly young women I’ve met, and I cherish her friendship greatly!

I’ve known John longer than anyone else, considering he was my womb-mate, and currently holds the title as my longest tenured roommate as well. I’ve grown up alongside him, and it has been a privilege to see him become the good man he is today.

Lily Bean is my Covenant friend! We met on callback night for the same role in Hello Dolly, but alas, we bonded over the shared hilariousness of neither getting that role (we both received different hysterical roles instead). Since, we’ve made multiple Trader Joe's runs, eaten mountain meals, and acted in Covenant theatre shows. Above all, Lily’s kindness, compassion, and loyalty toward me during the all seasons of my life make me believe this friendship will last long after college ends!

Drew is my favorite male cousin. He’s also my only male cousin. But the moniker of favorite is not placed solely in jest. His wit and wisdom are among those I am most fond of, and when he says something I know it has been thought through deeply.

Ashe is the lovely wife of Samuel’s brother, Bennett. She’s fiery and she never fails to make me cry laughing. We connected as soon as we met, and she has brought joy to my life since. We love talking tea, trips, Covenant, and the Sunders. I am so honored and excited to be joining a family with someone like her in it!

I’ve known Derek for the shortest time of any of these men, and I wish I’d started knowing him much sooner. He is a fine young man, and I am extremely excited to walk alongside him now, as he matures into a finer one.