To My Younger Brother,
I remember the first time Mom and Dad told me that I was going to have a younger sibling; I was five at the time. Truthfully, I was hoping to have a younger sister, but when I found out they were having you, well, let's just say I wasn't so happy. When Mom told me I wouldn't have to share my baby dolls and Barbie dolls with you, that all seemed to change. Having a younger brother wasn't going to be so bad after all.
I know we're five years apart, I'm almost done with college, and you're just finishing up high school; but as each year passes, the closer we have become. I know you don't always see it that way, but do you remember the fist fights we used to have in the play room? Or telling on each other for doing something stupid, even if we knew it looked like fun at the time? We were just kids then, but as we have both gotten older, having each others backs has been really special to me. Thank you for keeping some of my secrets, and not telling on me anymore (like my tattoo....sorry Mom and Dad), and not fighting with me (even though we both know it's because you're a six foot muscular giant who could squish me like a bug).
I sometimes can't help but think back to the lazy summer days growing up where we would play with Play Mobiles and build lego houses all day long. I loved going to the beach with my friends, but just so you know, I loved hanging out and building cardboard box forts with you more. Do you remember diving for our pet toys in the pool on hot summer days, and eating those cotton candy swirl popsicles? Those were your favorite.
I often think back to all of the times we have shared growing up... the good, the bad and the really ugly. Even through all of our stupid fights and name calling, and embarrassing each other out in public, I am so thankful that Mom and Dad brought you into my life (because you and I both know that I wouldn't be able to take care of them alone).
Going away to college and not being around to watch you play lacrosse or football games, or being able to hear you talk about your classes, or watch you go off to school dances has been hard for me. You may not know that, but I like to hear about your life and what you're doing. Send me a text every now and then, won't ya?
Fast forward a few years (and I mean emphasis on years hahaha), you will be bringing a girl home to meet the family. Don't get too serious right away; the first one isn't usually the one. Regardless of who she is, know that I will be talking to her and asking her questions, not to intimidate her, but because I want to make sure she makes you happy. Sorry, but I am still your older sister after all, and I'm allowed to be protective.
Down the road you will be getting married (what a scary, scary thought), and just a disclaimer, you know all of those pictures of you in my dance costumes? I'll be showing those. But for now, you'll be learning how to drive (don't worry, I'll teach you if Mom and Dad are driving you crazy), and you will be going on college tours. Take it all in, but don't forget to enjoy high school too. Life only gets harder from there.
I wish I could stop time and rewind for a bit, even if for only a few hours to go back to the days of lego houses and pulling you around the back yard in the little red wagon, but I can't. As we grow older, just know that I would still do anything for you (even if that means pulling you in the wagon again haha). And know that I couldn't be more proud of the person you are becoming. You have a kind soul, and a good hear. Always stay humble and good things will come your way. You deserve the world.
You may not always be my little brother physically (because we both know you have a good foot and a half over me), but always know that I will always be your older sister. I will always be here for you. Don't be afraid to call me if you need me. Your secrets are my secrets, and don't forget, it's me and you, against Mom and Dad.
Love you.
Love,
Your Big Sister
