Devon,

Growing up, I always felt like I was your older sister, even though you’re nearly a year older than I am. Whenever you and Hayden fought, I always tried to intervene. I was always in charge whenever it was just us three at home alone. When we were younger, people always asked if we were twins. Now, they ask if I’m the older sibling. It’s funny because I always see people talking about how their older sibling is protective over them, but somehow manages to simultaneously be the most annoying person in the world. Instead of you being that person, I would like to think that I fit that role pretty well. I obnoxiously let everyone know I’m your sister in the halls by wishing you a mighty lovely day and let you know you’re wonderful. You hate it, but I love it. I tell you I will literally fight anyone when people are jerks to you (however, we both know I’m way too weak to hurt anyone, but I'll goddamn try).

You have overcome and grown so much in the past couple years. I won’t go into detail since it’d take forever and I’m sure that you’d rather have me not. Maybe another time.

I remember when you were heading into freshman year: timid, awkward, and nothing short of the smartest kid I knew. I don’t think you ever spent time with any of your classmates outside of school. That’s why when you brought a friend home for the first time since elementary school, I was surprised and curious as to who it was. Today, as an incoming senior, you’re a little less timid, a little less awkward, and probably a little smarter. You’ve got plenty of friends. You’ve taken an interest in photography. You’re out and about shooting videos and taking pictures of anything and everything. Hell, you even work for Thomson Reuters!

Yeah, we may fight and it’s probably my fault most of the time, but it happens. I’ll try to be better and hopefully, you’ll try to be better about it too.

Now, as you are about to finish up your high school career, I feel like you've recently begin to grow into your role of a big brother more than ever. You drive me places (with complaint most of the time), you are the bigger person in our arguments and say sorry with blizzards and apologetic words, and you let me tag along with you and your friends. I truly cannot say this enough: you have grown and changed so much in the past few years.

So, because of the current situation in the house -- which is a story for another time -- this letter has not reached the lengths that I wanted it to. Despite that, I am immensely proud of you. I mean, I cried realizing how much you've accomplished while I was in a public space. From interning at Thomson Reuters to finding another world in your camera and creating wonderful things, you have become someone amazing. Just like me, you’re finding your place in the world. I admire you and everything you’ve done.

Congratulations on your internship and good luck on senior year.

Love you lots kid,

Your Little Sister

(Also, if you want to see some of his sick videos, check out his YouTube Channel here.)