Ashton is Allie's older sister and has been Allie's best friend since 1992 (whether she liked it or not). Since Allie could remember, she was constantly following Ashton around and copying her every move. As Allie grew older, Ashton's patience grew as well. From Allie stealing clothes from her closet or ripping down her NSYNC posters from the wall, Ashton was rightfully angry but inevitably taught Allie how to never hold a grudge. Among many other life lessons (e.g. if it were not for Ashton, Allie would have gone years wearing the wrong shade of foundation), Allie is truly grateful for Ashton teaching her the importance of possessing empathy and compassion for others, and the benefits of spending quality time with family. As cheesy as it may sound, there really is no greater friend than a sister and Allie is so grateful God chose Ashton for her.
Allison and Allie met the Summer after Seventh grade during volleyball camp. Allison had just transferred from Saint John's School and was unanimously designated as the "cool new girl" due to her having Mariah Carey's "We Belong Together" as her ringtone (it should also be noted that she had the coolest Xanga page). Once Allie and Allison bonded over volleyball and the Top 40 Hits of 2005, Allison graciously invited Allie to her "Survivor" themed birthday party where Allie became the reigning champion of the event and where the quote "I like pie" will forever make them cringe (can we dig up that footage, Ally C?). Allison quickly became a best friend and meshed with the tight-knit group perfectly. Throughout high school and college, Allison was the fun, yet responsible friend that we all so desperately needed. When it came to sneaking out or staying out late, Allison was the only one that could rally the troops and who made sure we all made it home safely (which we are eternally indebted). Not only did we count on her to rally the troops, we also knew that she would plan the most fun times together. Whether it was brunch plans at a cool new restaurant, function/Dickson outings, or even sneaking into the law school as undergrads to study, Allie always knew she would be having a great time with Allison. Ally C's compassion, selfless service, and attentiveness for others is what truly makes Allie so grateful for their friendship.
Regan and Allie met at the beginning of Eighth grade after she moved to Hot Springs, AR from Lubbock, TX. Regan was initially shy, but it did not take long for her to warm up to her new surroundings and meet new people. In fact, Allie first noticed Regan because Regan was laughing loudly down the school hallway during the first week of class, which is indicative of Regan's bright presence and how easily she can make new friends. After eating lunch together for a few weeks, Caroline invited both Allie and Regan to a sleepover at Caroline's house. It was there that a lifelong friendship transpired. Later on, it was discovered that Regan's and Allie's mothers grew up together in Hot Springs and were roommates their Freshman year in college. No wonder Allie and Regan were drawn to one another! They were destined to be best friends. Shortly thereafter, Allie and Regan formally designated themselves as God-sisters ("formally" because certificates were made). From that point forward, Regan was a part of the family. Allie is grateful for Regan's loyality and devotion to her friends and family.
Caleb and J.R. have been best friends since the 7th grade. J.R. and Caleb's friendship has endured Caleb cheating at video games and J.R. making countless jokes at Caleb's expense. Caleb is actually a talented singer and earned accolades from Howard Stern as a contestant on Americas Got Talent. J.R. and Caleb talk all the time about the Razorbacks, politics, and Caleb's failed attempt at stardom on America's Got Talent. Caleb will be graduating from UALR Bowen School of Law in May. Caleb lives in Little Rock with his wife, Ashley.
J.R. and Blake are cousins. Growing up, J.R. would spend weeks every summer visiting Blake in Eureka, Illinois where they would spend countless hours annoying Blake's Sister/J.R.'s Cousin, Brenna. Both love sports and even invented their own game with baseball cards as kids. Blake is the reason J.R. is now a Cubs fan. J.R. actually went to his first game at Wrigley Field with Blake when he was in Illinois one Summer.
Blake lives in Eureka Illinois where he works at Eureka College as a Media Relations Coordinator.