Birthday Wishes!

Today, I would to send birthday wishes to 3 very important people in my life. My mom turned... well she turned 30 today! 30... because my older brother is 29 already. Wow he caught up to her quick! Also my two cousins Valerie (14) and Alexis (15). It's funny to have 3 people on the same side of my family share a birthday. So happy birthday to you all! And many many more!

(Alexis as a baby)

Now I especially want to tell you about my cousin Alexis who turned 15 today. Here she is. Isn't she gorgeous?

Alexis holds a very special place in my heart. She's my little cousin, and she's my friend, but she's also so much more. I am 8 years older than her but I have also felt like she was a daughter to me. Yes, I understand that it would be quite impossible for her to be my daughter with such an age gap between us... but that's what I feel.

I have watched Alexis grow up to be a beautiful young lady. When she was little, she was my mini-me. We were ALWAYS together and she followed me everywhere. I never got tired of her. She did everything with me and I used to love dressing her like me. We matched a lot of the time. Pretty much we were inseperable. And of course I grew very attached to her.

By the time she hit her pre-teen years and I was a teenager... we didn't spend as much time together. But I always tried to make sure she knew I was there for her. I watched her accomplish many things. She has made me proud in so many ways. I don't know if she even knows this but she has.

I've watched her grow into her own person and discover who she is. She is beautiful both inside and out. She loves everyone and although she is quiet and reserved she has a heart of gold. I see her take care of her younger brother and sister and love them when most people wouldn't even want to put up with them. She loves her parents and you can tell by the look in her eyes. Ok so maybe her mom stalks her from windows with video cameras... but it's good to see she is rarely embarrassed by her parents. Once you realy get to know her you'd see that she is funny, loves to read and always has her head stuck in a book, she loves animals, she also enjoys watching scary movies which is something we definately have in common, and she truly just has a love for life.

So my baby, today on your "quinceañera", I wish you all the best that life can bring to you. You are a hard worker and I know that you will go far in this life without a doubt. It doesn't matter what you decide to do, you will succeed and make a difference. My life is better because of you... better because you are a part of my life. I want you to always know that I am here for you whenever you need anything. I love you more than words. Happy Birthday.

Love your cousin Michelle

Alexis and my aunt... the lady resposible for raising such a wonderful child