I may only be 23-years-old, but I need someone to revive my soon-to-be old soul once in a while. A lot of times, people are shocked to find out the age difference, but it has never bothered me. I was a little mom running after you at 12-years-old. My nurturing self-loved loving on your little-freckled face. You may be young, but little do you know you’re the glue to the family. You’re the caboose that keeps us all in check. Even after all of these years, you keep us on our tired feet.

Being 10-years-older than you means some days I am your mom. I’ve had my fair share of “No” moments with you. With a roll of the eye, you would say back, “You’re not my mom.” Oh little girl, if only you knew how loved you are. I may not be your mother, but I will forever be your protector. I took pride in having a car seat in my car at 16-years-old. Those were the sweet old days. I used to pick you up from school, plop you in the back of my car and take you to go get a treat. Nothing was more rewarding than hearing you say, “Thank you, sissy.” You used to have the cutest little lisp when your two front teeth were missing.

I might not say this often, but you are beautiful. God created you to be a powerful individual in this world. Yes, you stress me out and make me want to yank my blonde hair out, but I have to keep you around. You are my little sister. I may live far away from you, but I am always a part of you. I’m cheering for you far away. When I do get to see you, I usually try to surprise you. My heart melts when you turn around on the court and see me in the bleachers cheering for you. Every single time you get a little smirk on your face. It makes all of the dumb fights worth it.

If you have a sibling that is significantly younger than you just know they are watching you. Whether they admit it or not, they want to grow up to be like you. There are times that you may be annoyed with your sibling, but just remember you used to be in their shoes. You’ve gone through those awkward middle stages. You know how cruel other kids can be. Sometimes they need a hug from you. They might act like they’re too cool you, but let's get real, no one is cooler than an older sibling!

So thank you baby girl. Thank you for always being down for a dance party with your pink tutu. Please know that I do miss our cuddly nights. I also miss those days that you would show me your sweet diving skills in the pool. Your innocent soul puts a smile on my face every day. I will forever be your be your big sister and best friend.