I never knew what it was like to have a built in role model or someone to always look up to. Growing up as the oldest, I was the one who constantly had to set examples, and had to be the mature one. Having a pest of a little brother made for lots of bickering and not a whole lot of common interests. I’m sure there are some aspects he idolized me for, but I wanted someone to idolize over myself. I wanted someone that would take the time to teach me how to put on lipstick, let me listen to the hottest new songs or take me places like the movies or for ice cream. Sure, I had my mom for those things, but I always envied my friends who had older sisters.

By the time I was in high school, I had learned to cope with being a responsible role model for my younger brother. By that point, we were even the best of friends. At that point, I also sought my best friends to be the sisters I never had. But it wasn’t until I got to college that I searched for what I always wanted as a kid. I joined a sorority and knew I’d be stepping into a house full of over 100 girls that would become the “sisters I never had.” What I learned quickly is the reality; Not everyone will be your absolute best friend. Luckily, I was able to find a specific person that filled that role that after all these years. So, to the girl that I always wanted, and always needed, this is everything I’m appreciative for.

Creeping Me Out.

From the first time I met you, you knew everything about me, from what I did in high school to who my friends were. Little did I know, you knew so much about me from recruitment but it was a great ice breaker, and greater shock when you repeated all of this information to me.

For always twinning with me.

Countless times we’ve been caught saying the same sentence simultaneously or we’ve shown interest in the same thing; We’ve basically established we’ve become the same person. The moment I hate someone they get on your sh*t list too. And vice versa. We always ask each other’s approval if we like a certain someone enough to hang out with them or like a boy enough to show interest and actually do something about it.

Embarrassing ourselves is second nature.

There are some things we’ve done or talked about that we would never dare do/say in front of our parents, a boy, or anyone for that matter. So when I come home to tell you about a weird rash in a place that the sun don’t shine, it’s between us and it doesn’t phase either of us that we’re talking about the weirdest, grossest things ever.

Being able to call each other out.

In the rare occasion that we don’t agree on each other’s thoughts, actions, etc. we’re comfortable enough to disagree with one another. When I don’t like a boy you try to pursue, I can happily tell you I think you’re better off moving on. When I say something about a girl I don’t like, you agree that she shouldn’t exist, but call me out when I make a comment that’s too hurtful. Always keeping me accountable and giving me reality checks is what you do best.

Being my mom away from home.

I can’t count how many times you’ve helped bail me out of sticky situations, spoiled me with gifts, given me advice, and just been my parent when I don’t have one at school. Luckily, my mother never has to worry when I’m away because having you around is a relief to her.

Always being my shoulder to cry on.

Almost every drunk episode of mine that results in me crying ends in me falling asleep while you hug me, telling me it’s OK. I’ve even left date dashes early to come find you and cry. My poor dates have always come second to the idea of me ditching them to hang out with you, vent to you, etc.

Spoiling me more than I deserve.

You spoil me not only with material things but also in privileges. Whenever I don’t want to eat a meal at Kappas, you always come pick me up to take me out somewhere. Whenever porch is too cold or uncomfortable to sleep in, you let me come over and shack in your room. And whenever I need an escape from 60 plus girls and want my own quiet time, you let me invade your house, watch movies, make myself at home, and escape the chaos.

For being the best role model I could ask for.

Since I’ve never had a real big sister to guide me and tell me how to do things, you fulfilled all the wishes I had as a kid and made me realize what I was missing out on. For that, I thank you. I never knew I’d look up to someone who was only a year older than me, and you’ve taught me so much and made me a better person.

So here’s to you sissy! Thanks for all you do!