Dear Big Sister,

Having you as a big sister is the best gift God could have ever given me. Although we are only fourteen months apart, and step sisters, I have never met another person that is so much like me. Through new loves, new schools, and new friends, we have always been each other's “Day One.” even though we didn't meet until we were about twelve or so. I remember during our early "family" vacations, back when our parents were “just friends,” we would sit in our bunk beds and laugh about how awesome it would be if our parents actually did start dating!

A few years later we found the same laughter again, as we were in fitting rooms trying to find matching bridesmaid dresses we both looked cute it. I don't remember how many dressed we tried on that day, but I do remember how difficult it was to find a dress that look decent on both of us. We shed tears together as we watched and listened to our parents at their wedding ceremony, promising to love each other for as long as they lived. That promise made us sisters, but so many other promises made us best friends.

As my sister, you have listened to every word I have said to you. You have answered phone calls at two in the morning and FaceTime calls at any time of day. I've stolen your entire wardrobe, all of your blankets, a lot of your lotions, a shampoo bottle or two, and you still love and appreciate me. I have asked for advice on everything from Christmas gifts for our Dad to relationship stuff, and you have always helped to guide me in the direction that you would have gone yourself.

As my best friend, you have blurred the line between friendship and sisterhood.

Between all of our inside jokes and all of our quirks, I don't know how our brothers can stand living with us. 'Two peas in a pod' describes us perfectly because we are sisters and best friends, too. I couldn’t imagine what my life would be like without you, and I am glad I don’t have to.

Here is to us. Our laughter, our memories, and everything else we stand for together. Here is to my future maid of honor, my big sister. I love you so much.

P.S. I am sorry I've stolen, and come to love, all of your clothes. I'm sure that you'll get them all back eventually.