For 20 years, I had a mostly shallow relationship with my sister. Not that we did not like each other, but our relationship was not performing at its optimum potential.

Fortunately, through certain life experiences, we broke through the wall between us and became the sisters we were always meant to be. Although I often regret the 20 years I missed out on that relationship, I am thankful for where we stand today.

My sister, even though she is 11 years older than me, is truly my best friend.

Honestly, if anyone heard our conversations though, they would think we were insane. We talk about literally EVERYTHING. That's what sisters are for though.

What I love about my sister (well I love a lot about her, but you get it) is that she doesn't just tell me what I want to hear. She tells me what I need to hear, too. Even if it means stepping on my toes, she'll do it, but only because she loves me and wants the best for me.

I know if I ever needed her to, my sister would seriously fight someone for me. I've been afraid she was actually going to do it a time or two. I'm her "baby sister" and as she says, "no one messes with my baby."

She is the only person who understands my parents as I do. Let me preface by saying I LOVE my parents, but every parent can be annoying at times. When that time comes, who ya' gonna call? *cue Ghostbusters' theme song* My sister! Also, she's the only one who can truly appreciate when they say something super funny. We love you, mom and dad!!!

If you don't have a sister, you may not know that they are an on-call wardrobe advisor. Whether my outfit is for a date, a football game, or church on Sunday, if I am undecided, you better believe my sister is gonna get pictures asking which one to wear. A lot of times, she will match up items I would never think to put together, but they turn out so cute!!

Let's not forget all of the venting we do to one another. From boys, school, and work to weird things we see on Facebook, we always have something to rant about. Thankfully, though, we don't spend all of our time "whining." We just get it out of our system and go on about our business.

After several days of bugging, I finally convinced my sister to watch Grey's Anatomy. Thankfully, she loves it, so we can both tag each other in Grey's-related memes and cry over heartbreaking episodes.

As if she weren't enough, my sister made me an aunt to my precious niece and nephew. They make me so happy and inspire me daily.

Even though I cannot change the past, I am thankful that today my sister is my best friend. I love you, sissy.