Dear Monkey,

I cannot thank you enough for being the most amazing little brother in the world. The laughter and love that you add to our family is a gift. Although I am the oldest and should be providing you life lessons and guidance, I feel that you have taught me more than I could ever teach you. I thank you for all that you contribute to my life, and for being the best little brother in the world.

Thank you for teaching me how to live lightly.

I know that I am uptight at times, but you have taught me to laugh at the little things, and to joke around. Your laugh is infectious. Your jokes are hysterical. I have learned from you that I need to be less serious and tense because life is a special gift and why should we choose to be uptight when we can be light? Thank you for teaching me the art of living lightly through your teasing attitude and lively jokes!

Thank you for loving me for me.

You never question who I am. You always encourage me to continue down the path I am on. I thank you for continuing to love me despite all my shortcomings and the times I get upset with you. You love everyone for who they are, and do not want people to change. You know when to give people their space and when to shower extra love. Thank you for always being my best friend and for loving me endlessly. I love you for who you are and I appreciate your love for me.

Thank you for your sweet texts.

Sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives that it makes it hard to connect with those we care deeply about. Whenever I get a text from you checking in on me or telling me that you love and miss me, my heart is warmed. Thank you for being sweet and reaching out to me when you have a busy life at home. Your texts mean the world to me as they let me know that someone is always thinking about me down in Florida.

Thank you for sticking up for me.

You always have my back and everyone knows it. You are always there for Sophie and I when we need someone to fend for us. I love how you care so deeply that you stand up for me. Thank you for protecting me in every circumstance.

Thank you for being there to pick me up when I am down.

Far too many times I have been down and in a rut, but you are always there to give me the best advice. I do not think that any other eighth grader could give better life tips on navigating the rough roads. You always know what to say in order to allow me to fall back into my groove as you encourage me to pick myself up and move on. Thank you for taking the time to be there for me when I need it most. I want you to always know that I am here for you.

Thank you for being you.

You are everything I aspire to be. You are strong, loving, kind, passionate, determined, have a heart of gold, and many more amazing qualities. I could not ask for a better little brother. You are wise beyond your years and it is apparent in the way you live life and your ability to touch others' lives. Continue to follow your heart and passions. Know that it is okay to make mistakes, and I will always be here for you no matter what. I admire you for staying true to yourself and for the confidence you exude. Thank you for adding a special layer to my life just by being you.

I thank you for all these things and countless others. You have such a special place in my heart. Sophie and I could not ask for a better younger brother. The two of us may fight at times, but I would not trade you in for the world as you encourage me to become a better version of myself each and every day. Continue to be your special self as you shower an incredible amount of love and warmth on my life, and every person you encounter. I admire you for all you do. Always know that I am so proud of you for who you are and that I am your biggest fan. Thank you for inspiring me every day. How I love and appreciate you for adding such love to my life. I do not know where I would be today without my monkey.

XOXO,

Your Proud Older Sister