happy birthday, darling girl!

25 years ago today, my favorite person on the planet was born. And 25 years later, I love her even more fiercely than I did the first time I held her. She grew from the tiny nugget you see above into quite the stubborn little lady--asserting her sass and a "where the heck did that come from?" attitude in unexpected ways. She spent summers with fruit punch stains on the fair skin above her upper lip and swimming like a duck; her tiny little booty hilariously bobbing above water while she practiced her strokes. She spent winters in zip up footie pajamas and listening to Christmas music long before (and after) the actual holiday. She then grew into her own; finding her passion in horses at a young age and committing to it with all of her heart and soul. She is the poster child for following whatever it is that makes your pulse race and I am both incredibly proud and envious of her for this. She will be an amazing mother someday.

Belle- We are the quintessential June-baby Gemini twins; oh so opposite in some ways, delightfully identical in others. You are a reminder of all things home should represent. You are giggles and cuddles and hours upon hours of imagination expanding play. You are kind and good. You are loving and lovable. You are a blessing above all blessings to have as a sister and friend.

You are, frankly, the best gift Mom and Dad ever gave me.

I love you wholly, fully, unconditionally, immensely.

Always here for you, no matter what.

Your big sis,

T