Sisters have such a special bond. They are a built in best friend—a person who you get to learn and grow with. As my little sister turns 19 (I still can't wrap my head around that), there are a few things that I want her to know as she starts her adult life:

1. You will never be alone in this world.

No matter who does you wrong or where you happen to find yourself, know that you will always have a sister who adores your cute little self. You will always have my support. You will always have a friend to call. You will always have me. When boys or friends fail you, you will always have me to confide in. Blood is thicker than water.

2. Our memories are some of my most cherished.

When I think about my childhood, I see a beautiful blur of familiar faces, golf carts, sunny beach days, grassy back yards, adobe tiled floors, two golden retrievers, and you next to me laughing at pretty much everything. Without you, my young life wouldn't have been nearly as fun.

3. I will always be protective.

It may have been annoying in your early teenage years, but I want you to know that I will always firmly stand behind what is best for you. I care about your well-being and I want to continue to see you smile. I want to help you not make some of the mistakes that I have made. If that means doing some investigating on someone new in your life, call me Nancy Drew.

4. I love you.

I love you a lot lil sissy. You've taught me more than I will ever understand and you made growing up a bright, vibrant kaleidoscope of memories. I will cherish our memories and you forever and always. Thank you for being there. Thank you for being you. Looking forward to spending many more years making memories and laughing like crazy.