My twin sister and I will be 45 years old on Oct. 30, 2007. My mother didn't know she was having us because her doctor only heard one heartbeat. I was apparently on top of my sister ... I like to think I was protecting her. 

We were a surprise to all of our family.  I came first at 6 lbs. 12 oz. and Teressa came out at 6 lbs. 10 oz. I am 9 minutes older.

As long as I can remember, I have felt so blessed and special to be a twin.  Sometimes I wonder "why us?"  Whatever the reason, I thank God for giving me a person to go through this life with that understands me. 

We have always been close.  We had the same friends in school, enjoyed the same activities, and had the same goals in life.  I always felt lucky that I didn't have to do things like start school, alone. 

We laugh alike and finish each other's sentences.  It freaks people out when we start saying the same thing at the same time.  We have had a lot of fun over the years.  I love my twin sister more than anything.  Only she knows how much.  We don't have to talk when we are together, just being in her presence I am fulfilled.  I love you Teressa.

Melissa Leslie

Elkmont, Alabama