Growing up as a group of five girls is something that I will always cherish as a blessing, even if there are a few moments where it does not seem that way. Going through life with you by my side is really what got me to where I am today.

It’s amazing to see how each of us have grown into the adults that we are. We grew up close, but we are all so different! (Even if no one can tell us apart when we talk on the phone.) I have drawn inspiration from each one of you, and you push me to be the best version of myself.

There’s the big sister: you are the first one of us to reach all of the major milestones in life, both good and bad. I have never known a world without you in it, and I would not have it any other way. Being four years younger than you, it might feel strange for me to voice how proud I am of what you’ve done in your life, but it’s true. I am proud of the way that you chose to dedicate your life to taking care of others. I am proud of the way you stand by your beliefs and refuse to let anyone else tear you down. I am proud of the man you married and the marriage that you cultivate. Thank you for being there for me!

There’s the free spirit: even though you don’t know where you’re going in life, you don’t let that faze you. When asked what your plans are, you don’t say “I don’t know,” in the scared voice that I would use in your situation. Instead you say, “I don’t know,” with a kind of confidence that translates to, “I don’t know, yet, but I’ll figure it out.” You take each day as it comes and go with the flow. It’s amazing the way that you can let go of the reins and not panic the way that others might in the same situation. Thank you for teaching me to relax and understand that sometimes plans don’t go the way I think they will, and that that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

There’s the artist: oh my goodness! The drawings I see spread throughout every corner of the house leave me in awe. You have such an eye for the beautiful things in the world, and you know how to capture them on a once blank piece of paper. I look at a flower and see a flower; you see a wonderful piece of art and immortalize it with a few strokes of your hand. Anytime I see you, there are pencil shavings pressed into your skin because you have been working on your next great masterpiece. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world. God has given you an amazing gift, and I am so happy that you don’t keep it to yourself.

There’s the animal lover: it’s hard to say that the “baby” of the family isn’t really a baby anymore. Every day sees you growing into a young woman, and you are making your mark on the world. It’s crazy the way that you can go up to any creature and it instantly loves you. Whether that be with our own two cats, Grandma’s dog or the pet that you meet somewhere. You love all of these animals, and have a way of making them trust and love you, too. I’m proud of the way you care for even the smallest of things, and I cannot wait to see where you go in life.

All of my sisters are incredible women, and I do not tell them that enough. Thanks for being by my side throughout this crazy life. I love you!