To My Little Sister,

Unlike most sisters, we did not have world war fights about that one shirt we really loved or who gets the car on Friday night. However, I was given the beautiful gift of getting to watch you grow up, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I remember the first time I met you as if it was yesterday, from holding you for the first time to hearing you speak your very first words to watching you courageously take your first steps. You fulfilled every sisterly dream I ever had and I thank you for that.

Although you’re the little sister, you have taught me more than I could have ever imagined. Seeing the world through your young eyes -- you have taught me how truly important it is to appreciate all the little things. Watching you score that goal and seeing you run down the field with the biggest smile on your face. To watching you bring home your first 100 percent on a spelling test and watching how proud of it you were -- how excited you were to make mom and dad proud.

Thank you for always being my buddy in everything, from shopping for that new dress to bringing our brothers to baseball practice. You always want to come to keep me company and of course belt out that new Taylor Swift song as we drive. You make a simple drive fun.

Thank you for being my biggest fan, leaving you to go to college was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. All of the phone calls and Facetimes still make me teary when I hear your little voice as you tell me all about school that day, and girl scouts, and dance; you have supported me every day, and never failed to make me believe in myself, each day a little more. You celebrate every small victory as if it were your own.

Thank you for bringing out the silly side in me and in everyone else. Sometimes everyone could use a good laugh, and you never fall short of making everyone laugh or bringing a smile to people’s faces. Along with your big heart, your toothless smile and uncontrollable laugh can bring joy to an entire room.

Thank you for allowing me to be the keeper of your secrets and being the first one you tell all that first grade gossip to. Thank you for coming to me for advice and asking me to help you with your homework. Thank you for allowing me to be your shoulder to cry on when you need it, and for that extra hug goodbye, even though you’ve already hugged me goodbye, whenever you leave to go anywhere.

Thank you for taking an uncountable amount of “candid” photos with me and telling me I’m beautiful when I’m not satisfied with how the picture came out. Thank you for helping me pick out outfits, even when I have to try on 20 to just get that right outfit. Thank you for always being blunt when it comes to my hair when it’s not looking its best.

Most of all, thank you for being my sister. Many people are not lucky enough to have a sister and I sure lucked out with you. Watching you grow up, being your sister, your god mother and your best friend has touched my heart in so many ways. I am excited to watch you continue to grow up and see all the beautiful things this life has in store for you.

Love always,

Your Big Sister