With each passing year, it feels as though milestone after milestone has been achieved. As though, with each fleeting day, time inevitably seems to change - whether it be for the worse or for the better. It feels as though just yesterday, my happy family of six was standing on the stairs leading up to my older sister's freshman dorm building crying our eyes out as our big sister fled the nest for the first time. The years have flown by, and the 17-year-old sister that we left behind for her freshman year has now turned 21. She has explored the world, she has made new friends, she has learned new things and once again, is ready to flee the metaphorical nest once more - but this time for good. So, in honor of my big sister, the ring leader of four crazy sisters and the queen of our castle (after mom of course), I write this thank you note for her as she sets out for the real world on her graduation day.

From the second you got your license, I was beyond thrilled to have someone other than my parents who could drive me around on fun adventures. And by fun adventures I basically mean going to the Orem's, our local diner, without our parents or going to church on our own. As we got older, and you set out for college, you'd come home in the summer and I seemed to make you my personal chauffeur. Although you'd complain at times, you never said no. So, thank you for always driving me everywhere. Whether it be just me, our two little sisters or a bunch of my rowdy friends, you never hesitated to volunteer to drive us to and from events. No matter what, I knew I could always count on you to be up at whatever ungodly hour I needed a ride at, and I knew you'd be ready and on your way in less than 5 minutes. Thank you for always giving me someone to count on.

Thank you for always checking in. Whether it be a "Hey let's FaceTime I miss you" text or a phone call asking how my first day of college was. I always knew I had someone there for me worrying about how I was and missing me even though we were only an hour apart.

Thank you for inspiring us. It's not an easy task being the oldest of four (especially four girls), but you have handled and conquered the task with ease. Each and every day I thank my lucky stars to have a sister who is so devoted to everything she does. A sister who, no matter what, refuses to give up. Although we tend to bicker and have our fair share of differences, I know that at the end of the day I have a sister and a best friend who would do anything for her family and friends. That right there is inspiration to me.

And, in the long run, I'd just like to thank you for being you. From your corny jokes to your mother-like tendencies or your bossy demeanor (someone, besides mom and dad, needs to keep us in line), I wouldn't dare look, nor could I ask for, a better, more inspiring or loyal, older sister.

With all the love and friendship that you have given your younger sisters, friends and family, there is no one else I'd rather watch accept their diploma and enter into the world as a college graduate. You are truly one of a kind and I am so proud to not only call you my older sister, but one of my best friends.

Congrats to you and the the class of 2016!

Love always,
Me