Dear Little Sister,

Every year when your birthday comes around it feels like it cannot possibly be time yet. You cannot have lived an entire year yet, you cannot possibly be entering your pre-teen years, and you absolutely are not allowed to be in middle school yet.

I remember every step of your life so far. I remember begging our parents for a little sister and it just didn't seem like it was in the cards. I remember the moment that mom and dad came out of the bathroom to tell me the incredible news. I remember jumping up and down with as much energy as my nine-year-old body had. I remember the preparations we made for you, the baby shower, the nursery, and the announcements. I remember the moment I saw you for the first time. I remember that you were babbling. I remember the pink sunglasses you wore on your way home from the hospital. I remember all of your incredible firsts, steps, words, birthdays. I remember these things because time moves so fast, and maybe I was too young, to appreciate every little detail in the moment.

There are a countless number of reasons why you are going to change the world. From your vibrant energy to your kind hearted nature you make it your mission to spread happiness in the world. I know that as your big sister I am supposed to be someone you look up to but the roles have been reversed, I look up to you every day. I never imagined that my, now, not-so-little sister would be someone I saw as a role model.

While I know that there are things about the world that you struggle with, and that there are people out their that don't understand your unconditional kindness, I know that you are taking it all in stride. I work with children nearly everyday and I have never met a child so willing to help others. Your generosity is awe-inspiring. There are times when I wish I could turn back time to see you as a toddler again but I know that is selfish of me. I should enjoy the fact that you are quickly growing into a beautiful young adult, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss the days of The Wiggles and onesies.

I am so incredibly proud of the young woman you are becoming. In your short life you have risen above medical conditions, bullies, and self-doubt to become the intelligent, strong-willed person you are today. To say that I am proud of you would be an understatement. I hope you know as you reach this new year in your life you know that your family always has your back, even when you don't need us to. I love you to infinity and beyond.