Bora.

I often hear people say, "I want to have my kids close together so they'll be close." I have to laugh, because it somehow implies that if your kids are farther apart, they're doomed to ignore each other for the rest of their lives. Now, Laura and I weren't best friends growing up, but we got along. I'd play Barbies with her when she was little (something Jeff would then tease me about), but we admittedly grew apart as she entered that obnoxious Hanson-obsessed tween phase. Fortunately, she outgrew that faster than most, and despite our five year age difference, she's been one of my best friends ever since.

For some reason, while writing this post, I've been trying to come up with reasons why someone might not like Laura. I can't think of any. Laura is incredibly easy-going (a tamed redhead?), silly, smart, and just plain hilarious. As I've said before, conversations usually start with "so I don't have anything to say" and end an hour later. She's come to visit us everywhere we've lived and she's always a welcome guest--having her around is just fun. I really can't put her awesomeness into words. She's just a fun person to be around that you end up hugging a lot. And maybe cuddle up on the couch with. And giggle and eat candy. And play Harry Potter Guessing Game.

Happy birthday, Bora. I'm going to miss you tons at Thanksgiving and Christmas, so come visit soon after that, okay?