Hopefully, all older sisters can relate to this. I am especially close with my younger sister (the middle child) as well as my youngest sister. However, over the past three years I have experienced more with my younger sister (the middle child, Alexis) because we chose to attend the same college. I guess you could say I followed her -- I left the college I was at to come with Alexis and play basketball at this small liberal arts college, Bethany, that we now call our second home.

Little Sister,

First of all, I know we do not see eye to eye all of the time -- being that you are president of our sorority and more level-headed while I am more impulsive and spontaneous. You often keep me in line and put me in my place when necessary, although I do not always agree at the time.

I strive to be a better person because of you, so thank you. I realize I need to set examples and for that I hold myself to incredibly high standards, because I know you are always watching, you have been since day one. Now, I am not going to say how excited I remember being when you were born because, well, I don't remember. I was almost two-years-old (you take away from my birthday celebration being that you were born one day ahead of me but two years later -- but I'll let that slide. Forever, I guess). Anyway, so there is no way I can remember when you came into this world but I can imagine my excitement. I do not know where I would be without you, I really don't. You make me want to be a better person, for you.

Years ago, when I thought I was going to lose you because that doctor didn't know what he was doing -- I was beyond hysterical. I was so upset I cannot even put it into words; I still hate that doctor for instilling that fear in me. It still feels so real. Whenever I think about it, I think about not having you to grow up with. Not having you to sit in your doorway as I sat in mine and play board games because we were in trouble and had to be in our own rooms -- which we technically were. Whenever my piece would move across the board to what was technically your side of the room you would move it for me, and vice versa. That memory still makes me laugh. I could not imagine life without you; and thank God, Grandma suggested more blood tests and nagged that doctor because I would not be nearly the same person I am today if you weren't here with me.

I'm graduating in a month and I know we are going to lose some of this connection; it is bound to happen. We're going to be apart physically, and I do not remember the last time this has happened. Even so, I hope we can still talk everyday (whether it be via FaceTime, text messaging, whatever). I want updates on everything in your life as if I am here. I really do feel like my sister's keeper. When someone has a problem with you, I have a problem with them. I would do anything for you, I will always be in your corner whether I agree with you 100 percent or not. I don't know if we would be this close if we weren't blood related, but I am glad we do not have to find out because you are one of the most important and influential people in my life. I never want to show weakness in front of you, I never want to be vulnerable in front of you, I always strive to show you that being a strong, independent woman is perfectly achievable.

You are perfect, and I hope nothing but the best for you in your future. I want you to know that I will always be available to come back to Bethany if you need a shoulder to cry on, a pro-con list constructed on a difficult decision, if you need an ex to be shoved out of the way, or just a friend to hangout with and listen to you talk. You mean the world to me and I hope you know how valued you are by me, as well as others. You are becoming such a strong woman, an independent woman, a smart, educated, sophisticated, professional woman and I am more than excited to see you on television sideline reporting for ESPN in the future; remember me when the Clippers give you a couple of free courtside tickets.

With much love,
Big Sister.