To my role model,

I want to thank you for being a pillar of unwavering support in my confusing teenage life. The way I see it, everyone needs a role model in their life - a person who they look up to, and can trust with anything. I consider myself incredibly lucky to have someone as vivacious, practical, and caring as you in my life.

Thank you for putting up with my shit on a regular basis. I know I'm not always the easiest person to deal with. You have a special way of easing my worries and reassuring me that everything will work out. I appreciate all of our extensive conversations, both heart to hearts and ridiculous ones. I can always count on you to put a smile on my face, even on the worst days. You, without a doubt, give the best hugs and the realest advice. Thank you for being a comforting shoulder to cry on and for wiping away my tears.

Thank you for being by my side whenever I need you most and for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk or spend time with me. Though it isn't often, I genuinely enjoy the time we spend together. If it weren't for being gluten free, our paths probably would not have crossed. Something about your demeanor makes you very easy to connect with, even when we hadn't seen each other in years. You always seem to know exactly what to say in response to my frequent panicked texts, or to brighten my mood.

Thank you for being such an incredibly honest and positive person. The positive energy you carry is like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. Especially when you would arrive to breakfast, already energetic and singing, while the rest of the table was barely awake. You have taught me the importance of staying hydrated, and more importantly, how to become a better version of myself. Like a ray of sunshine, your positivity radiates upon everyone around you. You have helped me become a happier, more confident version of myself, whether you've realized it or not.

Despite our six-year age gap and differing personalities, there is no one else I'd rather confess everything to. I know that you understand a great deal of what I'm going through, given some of our similarities. Sometimes I feel like you know me better than I know myself because your words of wisdom are spot on. You are one of the most caring and overall incredible people I have met, willing to go above and beyond what is expected of you.

Thank you a million times over for everything you do for me. You are the best role model and "mom" I could ever ask for. I hope we stay this close for years to come.

Much love,

Your little love bug