Dear Sister,

You are a shining light in my life…and sometimes the devil reincarnated. But hey... I say it out of love.

In my short time here on earth, I have come to realize two things. One, I would not be the woman I am today if it wasn’t for your constant motivation and support, and two, I would not be where I am today if I had not learned how to put up with your sarcasm and brutally honest comments. You have taught me more life lessons than I think you realize, and I couldn’t be more thankful for that.

From you, I have learned what it takes to hit a hard bottom and build my way back up. I have learned from you when to ask for permission and when to ask for forgiveness. But most importantly, from you, I have learned the importance of family.

Writing this article for you was kind of a long time coming. I’ve written about mom and dad, our brother and the two tiny humans you brought into this earth, but for some reason, writing your article has been the hardest. I think this is difficult because you really are the one person I can trust wholeheartedly with absolutely anything. In writing this letter, I am afraid I might miss something crucial that I know I need to thank you for. But here goes nothing…

You are my very first friend and will continue to always be my best friend. You held my hand during thunderstorms at the old house and carried me after falling off a scooter and needing to go to the hospital. You listened to me vent about, what I thought were, stupid rules and worked through dumb problems with boys. You’ve helped me out of very sticky situations and taught me not to take sh*t from anyone. You brought two of the most amazing kids into the world, which gave me a new outlook on life and love. Most importantly, you have shown me what family really is all about.

There is no one else I’d rather go on sushi dates, eat too much ice cream, and drink too much coffee with than you. There is no one else’s kitchen I’d rather raid than yours after a six-hour drive home. And there is no one else I would rather lounge around with watching music videos and your kids play. More importantly, there is no one I’d rather order the unhealthiest cheeseburgers with and then regret it only minutes later.

So here’s to you and all the lessons, memories, and jokes we’ve shared. Thanks for always putting up with me and making life a little more exciting.

Wherever you are, love you.

- Sister