Hey Buddy,

My, oh my, how the times have changed.

One day I looked to my left and there was a new man standing beside me. He had a familiar smile, but a fuzzier complexion. The same laugh, but in a much deeper tone and the same curly hair, now combed in a much tamer style. My pesky and loud (yet adorable) little brother was gone. Standing in his place was you — a much older, taller, more mature and caring man.

You have been my rock for as long as I can remember.

We have fought over everything and laughed about nothing. Through the best days and the worst days, you have stood by my side and become my best-est little (or I guess, not-so-little anymore,) buddy.

Together, we are probably one of the weirdest duos imaginable. We have gone from running home in grade school to build a blanket fort while enjoying our craziest snack creations, to now racing around town while singing loudly in the car and just talking about life. With you, I can be myself without fear of judgement and that is the most wonderful feeling.

Basically, saying that I am thankful for you and everything that you do would be an understatement.

Thank you for putting up with my silly practical jokes at age five and for listening to my pointless stories at age 20.

Thank you for always caring about me and for trying to protect me from every single heartbreak.

Thank you for continuously raising my standards on how I should expect to be treated.

Thank you for always staying awake with me to watch late night movies and for making errands so much more enjoyable.

Thank you for helping me understand sports and for letting me win a few arguments about football (even when I’m clearly in the wrong).

Thank you for always saying yes to ice cream.

Thank you for laughing hysterically with me in reaction to everybody assuming that we’re either twins or that we’re dating.

Thank you for being my best friend.

You understand me like no one else does. You’re the first person I think of when I just need to talk or when I want to do absolutely nothing but hang around the house and be lazy during summer break. No matter what, you’ll always be my favorite Sunday afternoon FaceTime to answer when we’re miles apart.

I don't say it nearly enough, but I couldn’t be more proud of the admirable man that you have become. You are incredibly smart, respectful and generous. You truly have a heart of gold and I can already tell that you will be an amazing husband and a remarkable father. I have no doubts that the path you continue to travel down is a bright one full of wonderful things and grand opportunities.

As you continue to face the world, never lose the skip in your step or the light in your eyes. You can truly do anything you set your mind to and I will always be here to help you if needed.

Lastly, please know that you inspire me each and every day. You make me want to be the best possible version of myself. You make me work harder, dream bigger and believe in myself more than ever before.

I love you so very much and I will always be right by your side.

Love always,

Your Big Sister