They say God puts people into your life for a reason, so there is no doubt in my mind that my sister, Lizzie, and Tine were always meant to be best friends. I’ll never forget one of the first times I met Tine – we were picking Lizzie up at soccer practice and she was running to get into her Mom’s van. I thought she looked a little like my sister. She was sweet with a tiny voice. She exhumed innocence, beauty, and joy. The girls would be soul mates and instantly became inseparable.
Over the next year or so, Lizzie and Tine became closer and I became a bit jealous. My little sister’s best friend was her new sister. But when tragedy struck and Tine’s Mom passed away, I felt like both my little sisters were in pain. I got over myself and realized Tine was more than my sister’s best friend. She was my friend, my little sister, and someone who would always have a permanent place in my heart.
It’s been over a decade since that sweet girl entered our lives and I’ve always felt like she was the missing piece of our family puzzle. I’ve never felt anything other than love and thanks for being able to have her in my world. Tine has always been a beautiful, smart, talented girl who I’ve watched grow up to be the most incredible woman. Annabelle thinks the world of her Zia – I know she will be the first one who teachers about fairy chairs and shows her how to do Yoga.
Tine – I hope your birthday is filled with overflowing fancy glasses of Prosecco and Rose. May you dance your pants off somewhere alongside Lizzie and know I wish I could be there too. Thank you for letting me be your sister. I cannot wait to see you marry the love of your life, to be by your side when you welcome your own little one into this world, and to be a part of everything else magical that will happen to you. Happiest of birthdays!
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