Finding accurate words to write is a difficult task because if I could take the sun and write in its rays for you, I would.

So here they are: Thank you.

Really, thank you. You have been there for me since day one and I cannot thank you enough.

In every home video, you have me laughing until my stomach ached and always made sure I was okay. In every home visit, you always made sure to spend time with your loud baby sister so she didn't feel left out around the big kids. In every phone call, text message, and email you always have my back.

So thank you.

It would be an absolute understatement to say that you are one of my favorite people. You're not like other big brothers. You were always there to take my punishments, pick me up when I fell down, and get me laughing when I thought I could never stop crying.

I know things have changed over the years as we get older and have more things to do in life, but please know that I am so thankful for you and everything you have done for me. You have a way of making life seem not as heavy.

I appreciate our long phone calls, especially now that they are happier. I know you didn't mind the sad ones when I would call you just for reassurance that I am loved and cared for because I couldn't find that where I thought I could here. I adore hearing about your day and your adventures, even if you don't see your life as adventurous.

I appreciate the time spent with you when you're here. It's not ideal that you've always been a plane ride away and I would give anything to have had you here growing up. Other kids don't know how lucky they are to have their big brother by their side.

You've always been the one to understand me and support me in my decisions. When I told you I liked girls, you asked if there was a specific one and listened to me talk about her. When I wanted my nose pierced, you were the one who paid for it. You've never insulted my hair color choices, my hair cut choices, my clothing, etc. I cannot thank you enough for always accepting and loving me just the way I am.

I know that you don't see yourself as a risk-taker or having anything worth mentioning in our phone calls that is new and exciting, but I hope you know that you bring happiness and adventure to other people's lives. Your personality is infectious and it amazes me how easily you can light up a room with your jokes and laughter.

I hope you never underestimate yourself and the importance you have in my life as well as everyone else's that has ever come to know you.

Thank you for being the most genuinely kind person in my life. You're better than I could ever hope to be, inside and out.

I love you, Boo boo.