Brittany shared a toast at the reception. Her toast was the only time I cried! She is such ana amzing sister. The relationship and bond I have with her now is one of the special blessings that has come out through tradegy. She was a big part of my healing process. When she moved in with me, there was a major shift in my healing. She is so kind and compassionate. She is so different from me, yet so the same. She just gets me. She is so strong and motivated. I love her!! This is the speech she shared…at least we think. We were both flubbering through it crying. She started crying right when she turned to look at me. She had everyone crying by the end!

My Big Sis is married today. You look absolutely beautiful. Looking up to a big sister is just something little sisters do. All the greatest memories of my childhood have you in them. And as I get older I find that memories of old boyfriends, childhood drama and things that seemed so important at the time, fade away while memories of my sister pop out of nowhere and hit me by surprise.

I followed you everywhere, stole your clothes, and watched how people were drawn to your natural charisma and complete comfort in who you are as a person. And even though we fought plenty (especially during those teen years) I loved you from the day I came home from the hospital ( even though you greeted me with a bite on the arm.) And that’s because I knew something that it only took Chad seconds to realize too- that my sister is a light. A bright shining beautiful light- brighter than the sun.

And there were times in the last couple years when I looked at you and worried that light had been permanently dimmed. I worried that I’d never see that wonderful Erica smile again. But when you and Chad found each other that was the first time I saw you filled with Joy again. Giddy with happiness. Daydreamy and silly. Chad- you brought me my sister back to me. To all of us. And for that I am eternally grateful.

I know that you will build a beautiful life together. You’re roots are strong and you’re marriage will be too. You are both so very special. And you both know how very blessed you are to have each other and I know you will cherish every precious second. I’m so happy for you both. So…

Here’s to the bride and groom. I love you both!