“Watch and pray, dear, never get tired of trying, and never think it is impossible to conquer your fault.” - Little Women, Louisa May Alcott
As my mother was halfway out the door in labor with my sister Shannon, I called her back to say, “Mom! I made up my mind. I want a baby sister!” My mom answered me, “I’ll do my best!” My parents not only gave me my own amazing life, but that day Shannon, a gift that keeps on giving. I’ll never forget our dad leading me through the hospital halls to meet my little sister, making me sit before I held her for the first time. She was red-faced, heavy, and squirmy. It wasn’t long before I was asking if we could get rid of her.
Shannon is my cheerleader. She has assisted me with everything photography since she could hang sheets and model. She has done everything in her life to contribute to my success without any reservation, and taught me to live my dreams without apology or explanation. As the world is my open studio to feed on for content, she shoves me toward it.
Thank you, Shannon, for being the best sister I could’ve asked for on the day you were born. Thanks for giving me a purpose as a big sister and the courage to protect. I will always be there to knock people off their bikes when they’re fucking with you. We’ll forever have your Skeleton Boyfriend song from the San Diego Comic Con roadtrip, always be grateful for 80’s Night where I found freedom in dancing, and will never forget the excitement that shone on your face while we rocked out to Blink 182 and Good Charlotte.
We’ll always have the time I accidentally threw a giant ice block at the back of your head thinking it was a snowball (so sorry!), No Dumping, and the summer we intended to dye your hair purple, but it came out a very fashionable gray.
There’s no way I stand before you the woman I became had you not fought with me to be brave in pursuit of everything I’ve ever wanted without hesitation. With you in my corner, I never thought it impossible to conquer my faults.
Happy Boithday, Bawss! I love you!
