On any given day, if someone were to ask me what it is like to have a little sister, I would normally reply with, "Annoying". But honestly, this is the furthest thing from the truth. Having a little sister has been the greatest gift I have received so far. Here's why...

1. You learn early on how to take care of someone other than yourself.

I am sure those who do not have a little sister learned through baby dolls or toys, but an ACTUAL PERSON makes it all the more real. From watching her after school to attempting to make her dinner (Usually a pb&j, chips, and candy) I learned how to look after someone before some kids get the chance to. I still get flashbacks from all those times I had to drive her around until she got her license...

2. You hold yourself to a high standard

Knowing you have a little set of eyes looking up at you at all times, it is easy to become more conscious of the choices and examples you are making. Because I had a mini-me following in my footsteps, I made sure to make the best attempt to be the best version of myself.

It was also pretty fun to have her teachers talk about how much they missed me and see her get jealous because I was their favorite.

3. You have a higher self-esteem

Everything you say is funny to a little sister. Your fashion becomes their inspiration. Knowing you are making an impact on someone else's life makes you feel very powerful and important.

4. You learn to make sacrifices.

Everyone makes sacrifices in their lives but having a little sister guarantees that you will be making them at a younger age and a lot more often. From giving up your toys so that they will not be upset to pretending you didn't see them steal your outfit, small sacrifices are an everyday aspect of being a big sister. And boy is it all worth it.

5. You are never without a friend

There have been times when my snapchat best friend was my sister. I am not ashamed that I was blessed with a forever friend. Life is never lonely when you have a little sister. Late night Sonic runs are never lonely when you can force her out of her bed to go with you.

6. You get to live through someone else.

Sometimes when my social life is dry, I like to check up on my sister's. Being the tragically single girl I am, I love to see my sister and her boyfriend THRIVING. Also, it was very nice to revisit my past as she grew up watching the same shows I did. Because I had a little sister, I had a few more years of watching kid shows and playing barbies without people judging me.

Here is to you Al, you made me who I am today.