Dear Little Sis,

We've come a long way from our Barbie doll days. While growing older with you, I realized how much this relationship means to me. Not only were you there back then to play with on the playground and ride bikes around the neighborhood, but you are here today as we persist to mature. Believe it or not, you've helped me to become a better person. I thank you so much for everything you've brought/continue to bring into my life.

Thank you for copying me.

Underneath the annoyance, I'm flattered. Your desire to be like me is adorable. I love being your role model. Thank you for looking up to me.

Thank you for having similar interests.

You make it easy to agree on what music to blast in the car, and what shows to watch when we cuddle up at night. Thank you for having the same tastes that make it so easy to get along.

Thank you for having different interests.

Variation is important in all kinds of relationships. We can't do everything the same. You have your life and I have mine. You have hobbies I wouldn't think twice about staying away from, and that's perfectly fine. I learn through you about activities I'm not a part of. Thank you for having different tastes and for being what I'm not.

Thank you for keeping me young.

You fill me in on all the latest drama and gossip. And though it seems like I'm not listening half the time, I'm actually living through your stories. I dream to go back and relive the moments you're going through right now. Thank you for bringing that sense of nostalgia back into my life.

Thank you for letting me uncontrollably vent.

Sometimes you just need to rant about your worries, fears, and stress. Sometimes your friends are sick of hearing it. These are the times I come to you. Thank you for being there when I need to express how I'm feeling or share what's been going on.

Thank you for taking the spotlight off of me every now and then.

Mom and Dad can't always be worrying about me (thankfully). You need their attention as well. And I need my space as well. Thank you for being another child for our parents to focus on.

Thank you for being just a bedroom away.

One knock and you're there. I'm never lonely with you by my side. Thank you for endlessly being there for me with open arms all of these years.

Thank you for being my best friend at family events.

We take on family parties and family vacations together, and have a hell of a lot more fun than we would if we didn't have each other. Thank you for being my partner in crime.

Thank you for learning from my mistakes.

I wouldn't want to see you make the same faults and errors I've foolishly made. You take my stories and experiences into consideration, creating a better version of yourself and for sure a brighter future. Thank you for making me feel like a proud teacher.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life.

I'm honored to hold your hand and guide, hold your hair on rough nights and hold a part of you in my heart wherever I go.

Love always and forever,

Your Proud Big Sister