Dear Auntie,

Thank you for being the older sister I never had. As the oldest child in my extended family, there have been so many things that I've had to figure out for myself. But I want to set a good example, so there have been times when I thought I would explode from the pressure. Thank you for relieving that pressure, and helping me figure some things out.

Thank you for letting me vent when my parents suck. Thank you for the comfort hugs, and for putting up with long vent sessions over the phone. Thank you for being the voice of reason when my mom and I butt heads. Sometimes she just doesn't understand, but I'm too annoyed or angry to make her. You've always provided a third-person perspective, and have always been able to stay calm and see reason when we both have smoke pouring out of our ears.

Thank you for being fun. Thank you for bringing me favorite Starbucks drink, for being there when I got my eyebrows waxed for the first time, for accompanying me when I got my ears pierced again, but also for talking me out of stupid ideas.

I know that if I ever need someone to talk to, you are the best person to go to. I feel comfortable sharing anything with you, and I know that you'll give me the best advice. You understand my perspective, but you also understand the perspective of a parent.... a lethal combination. And though I may not always like what you have to say, I know that I ultimately have to listen to you, because you're absolutely right.

Thank you for bombarding my Facebook page with random stickers and pictures of dogs. Thank you for smothering me with smooches when we're around my friends. I tell them that it's embarrassing, but I secretly love it.

Thank you for choosing to hang out with me instead of friends your age. Thank you for taking me on shopping sprees and movie dates.

There are many times when I would rather hang out with you than with people my own age. I don't really understand how someone that's almost twenty years older than me can be one of my best friends, but you are. You sometimes understand me more than anyone else, and you are always there for me. You are such a strong and inspirational woman. You set the best example for me. When I grow up, I want to be you. I want to embody your resilience and wisdom.

Thank you for being the best aunt.