To my sister,

Over the years, I’ve come to the belief that everyone should go through life with a sister by their side, and this is all because of you! Here are some things that I want you to know, especially since I don’t say them enough:

First, I want to let you know that all the bickering and fighting actually means that I love you dearly. We wouldn’t be sisters if we didn’t argue! You’re pretty much the only one that can take my endless sassy comments and either a) laugh hysterically over it or b) give it right back to me. You understand that this is part of my personality, and I have found over the years that many people don’t really get this.

Second, thank you for all the advice that you have to give me. It seems that you’re on standby with it whenever I find myself in a sticky situation or two. I may not want to hear what you have to say, but you’ll chew off my ear anyway, always starting off with the phrase “don’t listen to Mom.” The funny thing is, Mom always tells me to do the exact opposite of whatever you do. Either way, I appreciate the wisdom you are always so willing to give me, even when I’m told not to listen to it.

Finally, thank you for always being there for me, no matter what the situation calls for. Sometimes it is as simple as cooking dinner together, even when I do most of the work (yes, you are that person that starts cooking, vanishes, and shows up at the end to receive credit). Other times it’s more serious, such as retrieving me from the ER and dealing with me after I was flushed with morphine. You definitely deserve a gold medal for dealing with that disaster! Whatever I need, I know that I can count on you to support me in any way, and I don’t think there are any words that can express how much that means to me.

To my sister-- you are my best friend, my number one cheerleader. You have given me enough support, wisdom, and encouragement I needed to grow into who I am today. I love you, and I really don’t know what I would do without you by my side!