I THINK I’M IN LOVE

It’s the little things that count. For example, this one time during a chaotic day, I managed to take a quick social media break and stumbled upon a post from one of my brothers. There they were, mother and brother enjoying a meal at Five Guys (without me! How rude!), with him captioning it “me and my best friend.” Naturally, I couldn’t resist teasing him by commenting, “I’m judging you,” only to be quickly text bombed in return with a photo of our mom, complete with a drawn-on white wig and gavel, and replying, “Now she is.” And just like that, an ordinary day turned into a hilarious family exchange that had me laughing. He’s a funny one, that one. Sometimes, it’s those unexpected moments of humor shared with loved ones that make the tough days a little brighter.

One of my love languages is FOOD. And my other brother? He’s the ultimate foodie. He spoils me rotten with all my favorites – whether it’s my favorite mint chip ice cream, charcuterie boards, sushi, boba, cake, or a thin crust pizza straight from the oven – you name it, he’s got it covered. It’s like he’s got a sixth sense for knowing exactly what will hit the spot. And the best part?

When my besties call, it’s like jumping into a whirlwind of important topics: the latest season of Bridgerton, God’s purpose for our lives, chismes, conspiracy theories (is J.Lo a vampire? She just doesn’t age!), or plotting our next hangout. Those moments aren’t just conversations – they’re the glue that holds my sanity together in a world that sometimes feels like it’s falling apart.

Whenever my friends greet me – they’re like something out of a sitcom, always giving off that “main character energy.” Seriously, they could rival any actual show with their over-the-top enthusiasm. I’m truly blessed to have such a colorful cast of characters in my life, who manage to make me feel like the star of the show even on my most mundane days. It’s so awesome to be fully grown adults with families who can still be funny, goofy, and absolutely ridiculous. We love to laugh together. They’re the kind of friends who are near even though some are far, and always present, whether it’s through a bombardment of hilarious memes or a random sing off to Robin Hood’s “Men in Tights” song or a dance off like this guy via video call. What more could I possibly ask for?

I indulge in the pure joy of family gatherings – where the laughter is LOUD and contagious, the tacos and carne asada are abundant, and there is an endless supply of tequila (but seriously fam, how do you manage to have SO much?). From the hugs that feel like home, all of my Tias’ red lipstick kiss stains on my cheeks, my cousins compromising my liver with another shot of tequila, my nieces or goddaughter crying because they don’t want me to leave, to the inside jokes that never get old, these moments remind me that my life couldn’t be any better… because it’s shared with the people I love.

Sure, they might drive me absolutely insane sometimes – like when my dad insists on telling the same embarrassing childhood story for the hundredth time or when my mom’s side of the family eats their food in slow motion (I cry on the inside because all I can think of is that their once hot food is now super cold while they’re eating it)– but deep down, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

As I grow older, I cherish these relationships even more, from silly childhood antics to late-night heart-to-hearts. Expressing love is essential, whether it’s whispered during a heartfelt hug, typed out in a text message, or shouted from the car window as I drive away (“goodbye, my loooooooove!”- Lloyd Christmas, Dumb & Dumber), those three words carry the weight of my genuine affection. I really, truly love my friends and family. Like, a lot. More than words could ever convey. Even though they know it, there’s something undeniably comforting about hearing those words spoken out loud. Life is precious, so let’s celebrate the tight hugs, the lipstick stained kisses, the “I love yous,” and the random “I’m thinking about you” texts with funny meme or video attachments. Here’s to the family and friends who make every day a little brighter and every moment a little sweeter. I LOVE YOU.