Today is my best friend’s birthday! Heather is only 12 days older than me, so I’m going to be nice. No baby pictures or blackmail photos because in 12 days, I know she’ll pay me back for it. Heather and I met in high school when I was a freshman and she was a sophomore. She spent third period in the library, and I conveniently skipped third period algebra in the library. (Mom, I didn’t really skip it. I promise.) Heather and I slowly became friends and after a while, we were inseparable. She left for college as I began my senior year of high school, and I was lost without her. Lucky for me, she didn’t go far! We spent most weekends together and the next year, I left for MTSU. We stayed close throughout college even though we lived hours away from one another.
We always had an adventure and most of the time, we still do when we’re together. The only time we every snuck out of the house was for waffles and cupcakes were our favorite thing to eat before they were cool (back when you could only buy them in a 6-pack at the grocery store). We took our non-SUVs off-road and spent many an afternoon laughing at the absurdity of others. Heather knows me better than most, and I miss her terribly. There’s not a thing I wouldn’t do for this girl, and I’m grateful to call her my best friend. Happy 30th birthday Heather!
I’ll never forget Heather’s birthday because it’s also my older brother’s birthday! Since Jarrod is my only brother, that “older” part wasn’t necessary. I just like to make sure he remembers though. 😉 After many jokes about how I’ll always be younger and cuter, I thought I’d take a minute to wish him a sincere happy birthday. Growing up, I followed him around like a lost puppy. Anything he did, I certainly tried — and that includes catching bugs, climbing trees and trying to skate board. I looked up to my big brother all my life, and he was always the first one to jump in and defend me when anyone was mean. I will always love him for those memories. It’s hard to believe we’re adults. It seems like yesterday we were riding bikes down Root Hill and catching frogs in the driveway.
Jarrod and I were typical siblings growing up. He bullied me and I was a brat to him, which worked out well for my parents. 😉 We’re both quite stubborn and not easily swayed. We still argue and disagree, but I am so thankful he’s my brother. I know he will always be there for me when I need him — just like he was last year when I needed him most. He’s somewhat of a giant, so I’ve always felt safe and protected when he’s around. He’s loyal and patient and has a servant’s heart. He’s charismatic and easy to talk to; people love him. I love him. I’m proud of my big brother for the husband and father he’s grown to be, and I pray for him daily as he leads his family. He makes life entertaining, and I’m glad I get to share mine with him! So happy birthday to my big brother. I love you Bo!
