To the little girl with muddy bare feet running with your brothers, cousins or just the boys down the block- you are the outnumbered, daring and courageous little girl who I adore and see myself through everyday. I traded in my pink bows and polished finger tips to play in mud, ride on ATV's and to be one of the boy's, just like you.

I see you, little girl, you can ride your bike just as fast as they can, you can talk to them and actually like the topics. You're morphing into their little sister, whether you're blood or not.

I'll give you some advice, little girl, growing up with the boys is both a blessing and a curse. The boys will become your personal protection, defending you in all matters whether you were right or wrong. These were the times where I was most thankful for being friends with the boys, because I knew regardless of what I had done, I was still their little sister and they would protect me through it all. On a negative note, sometimes the boys forget you are still a girl, and they come to you about things that you would never imagine you would hear in your life. When this happens, be patient and be kind to them. They came to you because they trust you, and value your opinion.

There will be bad times with the boys, little girl. In these times it's best to stick together, just like any friendship. The boys will cling to you, just like you will cling to them. These times will only make your friendship stronger, because you've already been through so much. Growing up together is a trial and tribulation story all in itself.

Remember all of the great advice they give you about dating, they're telling you the truth. They don't want you hurt, just as much as you don't want them hurt. Remember all of the late night conversations and what you talked about, because one day it might not be that easy. You get to see the side of the boys that not very many people do- the caring, genuine love of a friendship side. Cherish it.

Growing up with boys isn't the easiest thing to do. It's very frustrating, stressful and hectic. The payouts are more than worth it though, with life-long friendships with people who actually care about you.

So as you continue on this path as the girl who grew up with the boys, remember when everything goes bad you always have people to lean on. When things are going great, remember who to thank for that. I see myself in you, as I remember my days of growing up with the boys. I remember all the times we went through, and how they were always, always there for me when I needed them. They never let me down, as I'm sure your boys won't either.