My best friend, my worst enemy, my confidant, my shoulder to cry on; my sister is many things to me.

.

Eighteen months apart to some is a lot but in high school, it was way too close for us. Arguing over clothes, shoes, friends, makeup, and literally, everything else was a constant our house. There were even a couple of stray elbows and closed fists that were thrown every now and then if mom was far enough away not to intervene.

As we've grown older things have definitely changed. Where I live in a busy city that overwhelms you, you live in a small town that underwhelms me. Our visits home don't usually ever match up and I can't remember the last time we stayed up late gossiping about all the boys we used to think were cute.

Although we aren't as close in proximity as we used to be, I would argue that we are closer emotionally than we have ever been. You have your life and I have mine, even though we don't know every detail I still have a grasp on what you do day-to-day that makes me feel close to you.

When you need me I will always answer the phone or take your dog to the vet just like you would do for me. You are my personal WebMD when I am a hypochondriac. You are my mediator with our parents. But most of all, no matter where we are in life, you are my best friend.

"Sisters grow separately without growing apart" is a constant reminder of how our bond is in many ways separate but in much more ways so special.

I was always envious of the kids growing up who were only children because I was so used to sharing everything with you but now I realize how unbelievably lucky I was to have you across the hall loving and defending me and most of all putting me in my place.

Our lives will continue to grow and march on different paths but never will I worry that you won't be my best friend, late night call, lunch date, therapist, personal doctor, my sister.