We're never sappy people because that's just weird for us, but here are 7 thank-yous that you truly need to hear.

1. Thank you for being honest.

Especially when I needed to hear real honesty and not sugar-coated honesty. It may have hurt to hear the truth, but it made me better off in the end.

2. Thank you for (usually) treating me with nothing but kindness and respect.

Tackling me doesn't exactly radiate kindness, but I know you always had good intentions, despite the many bruises I've gathered over the past 18 years. Despite that, you've always been full of respect.

3. Thank you for being someone I can look up to.

Mainly because I was always shorter than you up until a few years ago and now we're at the same height (I still think I'm taller, though). In all seriousness, thank you for being a great role model and teaching me new things almost every day.

4. Thank you for helping me fix my mistakes.

Yes, I'm also talking about the mistake where I wanted to make a grilled cheese at 7 AM and I put a slice of cheese in the toaster by itself. I was like 6, okay? I didn't think things through then.

5. Thank you for being protective.

I can't count how many times you've told me that you'll bring a shotgun if needed. It wasn't ever needed, but it's nice to know it's on standby.

6. Thank you for meeting and accepting my boyfriend into the family.

I was nervous that you two wouldn't like each other, but I'm glad you did. There's never a dull moment when you two are in the same room.

7. Thank you for always having my back.

We disagree often, but you usually side with me against people, so I'm thankful for that. I get to feel like a sidekick, too. Win win situation.

I'll never take the bear hugs or the headlocks for granted. Growing up with you gave me a brother and a lifelong friend, so thank you.

Sincerely,

Your (Not So) Little Sister