HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TWIN!

Well, here we are. Another trip around the sun together and I’m still as grateful as ever to have you as my exit buddy (“Fin…noggin!…Duuuuuudeee)

Even though we’re 3,000 miles away from each other, I feel so connected to you on this day. When I think about Mom on a hospital bed pushing the two of us out into the world 26 years ago, it doesn’t feel like real thing that happened. I don’t even have the mental tools to imagine it (You do, arguably, but that’s beside the point). It’s just insane to me that we’ve literally been doing life together since the moment it started for us.

I can’t think of a greater first birthday gift to give another human being than a twin sister.

Everyday you inspire me to laugh harder and love deeper, and today especially I have found myself hit with waves of gratitude (hence the crying earlier).

I have witnessed every version of you since that moment we left the womb (and hell, even before it) and every single one has been beautiful in her own way. She has been my first roommate, my original partner in crime, my first-day of-school hand-holder, my French tutor, my peacemaker, my Prom date, my concert buddy, my therapist, my support system, and my best friend. You see, this girl means a lot to me.

So I want you to know that whatever version of yourself you feel like being on any given day - and whatever version you’re anxiously, hopefully waiting to become - I am so excited to meet you.

I love you, Ongy. Here you are, through my eyes.

ONGY TAKES THE U.K.