Thank you for always being there for me

It usually takes going through a hard time to realize just how big of an impact people make on your life.

Despite some of the issues I've been dealing with recently, I'm so incredibly blessed to have my family and friends to back me up.

My sister and I have always been close. I spent most of my childhood shielding her from the hard times and making sure she didn't have to see the awful things in the world around her.

But, in recent months the tables have turned. She has become my protector, stood by me and been my own personal cheerleader as I've faced the uncertainties of adulthood.

Whether it is heartbreak, sickness or financial difficulty, she is by my side lending an ear despite her own busy life.

In my most defeated moments she is always there to make me laugh with her random thought process and silly antics.

She even taught her son to tease me. Knowing I don't like my feet being touched, she showed her 16 month old how to tickle my toes, and say "gitty, gitty."

How can you not smile at that?

My nephew is the funniest little guy I've ever met, although I may be a little bias. He always knows when Aunt Brina needs lovings and cuddles.

Even though my parents and I sometimes don't see eye to eye, I'm still thankful I have them in my life.

Dad and I are constantly picking on each other, and he is always on standby when I need him.

I've moved a lot in recent years, and he is always available to pack up his truck and take me to my next destination in life -- even if he doesn't agree with it.

I can't even count how many times I've been stuck on the side of the road with a blown-out tire or an empty gas tank, and he doesn't hesitate to drive an hour to save the day.

Mom is always there to provide comfort in moments of uncertainty, and even still lets me lay my head on her lap and rub my back when I'm sick.

She is always my first call when I'm sick or just don't feel up to par.

I was teasing her the other day when she was giving me allergy advice by asking her when she got her doctorate.

Her reply?

"About three kids ago!"

My grandparents are my backbone. Without them, I wouldn't be sitting behind this desk doing a job that I love.

They always told me I was fully capable, even when everyone else doubted me.

I was always too stubborn to ask for help because I always tried so hard to make it on my own, but it seemed like grandma always knew when I needed her most.

Almost like a sixth sense for her grandbabies (who aren't babies anymore).

Grandpa has always been the strong silent type, but his pure love for his grandkids is apparent when his face lights up when he sees us and gives a big bear hug.

Even at 24, a hug from papaw is the best feeling in the world.

We live in a world of uncertainties, but I'm lucky to always know who is there for me in my times of need.

Sabrina is a staff writer for the Greene County Daily World and can be reached by email at swestfall@gcdailyworld.com or by telephone at 847-4487.