Having a sister that is 13 years older than you can seem, to most, that you barely have a sister at all. As for me though it is completely the opposite, in some ways I see it as better than having a sister closer to my age.

Growing up with the age difference it was almost like having a second mom, who was, of course, more lenient. She would make me eat vegetables and go practice soccer or read. But also she would do my hair in different styles (some I did NOT ask for) and let me try on makeup, clothes, and shoes.

As I got older it was nice having her because it was always someone to talk to if I was too embarrassed to go to my mom and she understood things better because she had been through it all more recently, she was always an open ear even if she wasn't close by. She knew what it was like to grow up and be a teenager but she also had the motherly nature to her which made it possible for us to connect on a different level. It was honestly like growing into a best friend, really wonderful.

Things now have changed and instead of playing dress up, we are able to share clothes, jewelry, and even advice. Having come up and always looking up to my sister it means the absolute world to me she is able to come to me and tells me her problems seeking my opinion.

I always saw her as so wise and never thought that I could help her as she has helped me but that is what is so great about the growth that we both have gone through.

I truly believe that she helped me grow as a person and the bond that we shared was something special. The age gap didn't hinder our friendship or closeness at all but actually helped us by giving us a unique perspective on being sisters. I got to learn so many things and got a sister, mom, best friend in one package.