If you ever grew up with a big brother, then you know they are a big pain. If you ever grew up with a big brother, then you also know they can be one of the greatest people in your life. Thankfully for me, mine is one of my best friends. Growing up with a big brother who always made time to hang out with his little sister was one of the greatest blessings I have ever received. If I have never said it enough, here it is: Thank you.

Thank you for...

1. Always making time for me

There is nothing better than days spent with you. It never mattered if I was three or 21. You have always made time to spend together. There is no better feeling than seeing your name pop up on my phone telling me you are free for the day.

2. Taking me on adventures

Our adventures that lead to our many memories and stories are some of my favorite. Whether we buy a $100 bunny suit or throw old Bertucci buns at street signs out of sunroofs, we never seem to a have laugh-less day. Thank you for always creating new adventures with me.

3. Having the same taste in food

You never let me starve when you babysat, and you always shared you instant mashed potatoes with me – that’s when I knew you really loved me. There is no one else I would rather try Indian food or split a sandwich at Frigos with.

4. Essentially being the same person

Since we essentially share the same face, same personality and same interests, there was never a doubt we wouldn’t be best friends. I love that we can hang out at your house and make fun out of anything. My stomach always hurts from laughing after leaving an adventure with you.

5. Pranking me

I am never really surprised when I find a tree branch in my bed or when you hack the computer while I’m babysitting, making me think I broke a $3,000 computer. (Yes, that really did happen.) Although I strongly dislike you for at least 10 minutes, I would never want anything less from you, no matter how traumatized I am.

6. Being a buffer

Thank you for always buffering my way through life. If it wasn’t for you and Nicole, I probably would have given Mom and Dad gray hair by now. I appreciate all the times you stuck up for me when I needed someone to help battle Mom and Dad.

It has always been nice to know if I ever needed you to be there for me, you always would. Growing up with a brother like you has made me realize how lucky I am. Thanks for always making me laugh, cracking my knuckles and attacking me. Thanks for letting me pretend I am your kid in the grocery store to embarrass you. Thank for always being my partner in crime.

Love,

Your mini-me