Dear Siblings,

Growing up, I have realized that you are the most precious people in my life and I wanted you all to know how thankful I am for all the things you say and do.

Thank you for being my friend. Nothing is better than knowing I always have an unconditional, consistent relationship in life. You are my go-towhen I am experiencing not only my high moments, but my low moments. You know exactly what to say to make me feel like I have the world in my hands. You push me. You also know what to do and say to pick me up, when I’ve been pushed and pushed. You are always there for me through every ex-friend or ex-boyfriend. You let me keep a spare key or know your garage code, as you are always welcoming me with a movie or dinner. You are always honest with me, because you look out for me and keep my best interests in mind- even if I do not know it until months later. You support me more than anyone else as you came to my sporting events as a kid and continue to attend special events. You know me better than anyone else and still choose to be there for me and love me- my mistakes, decisions, flaws and all.

Thank you for being my personal stylist. What’s better than having three closets to check for clothes? Nothing. You let me steal clothes when I am stressing over a night out or first date. In fact, you throw clothes and jewelry at me because you are so excited for me. Thank goodness we have similar body types. Unless you are my brother, who is asking to go out with me or asking what I am wearing or why I am going on a date. Thanks anyways for letting me borrow your sweatshirts and big T-shirts because over sized tops are so comfortable and so in. (By the way, I have a few to give back) If you are my sisters, you offer to braid my hair or curl it because you know if you do not do it, I will go and straighten it. You offer to do my makeup because I am just not up-to-date with the latest trends and items. You compliment me and make me feel like the most beautiful girl in the world. Once again, unless you’re my brother and are forced to say, “You look nice.”

Thank you for stepping up to fill big shoes when you did not have to. Ever since I can remember, you stepped up and became more than a sibling. You did things for me that no fifteen year old boy or twelve year old girl should have to do for their little sister. You looked after me when you could have spent your night with your friends or you cooked me dinner when I was hungry. You taught me that I can get through anything with a smile on my face. I do not know where I would be if I did not have you all to lean on while growing up. Even now, you do things for me that you do not have to do. You make sure I have a laptop so I can succeed in college or you pay a bill to help me with other bills. You are always looking out for me and wanting me to succeed.

Thank you for being my handyman. Because of you, I never have to rely on some boy or spend money for someone to help me with a repair, maintenance or car issues. If you are my sister, you ask your husband but if you are my brother, you teach me. Unless you lose your patience with me and just say, “Seriously?!” Brother, I do not know where or how you learned all that you know but it is definitely a talent because you can tackle any issue if it involves your hands and tools. You are so incredibly smart. Thank you for dropping everything to fix a clogged toilet, leak in the sink or flat tire. Your work does not go unnoticed.

Thank you for being such wonderful role models. You may not realize it, but I look up to you all more than you know. As your little sister, I think you all are the most beautiful, loving, selfless, strong, forgiving, talented and smartest individuals I know. You all are such amazing people that are doing great things in life and I cannot wait to continue watching. Whether you fail or succeed, I learn from it and that is why I am where I am today. You all are constantly teaching me life lessons, after experiencing so much in life, and helping me be the best I can be.

It’s true, the greatest gift out parents ever gave us was each other. I am who I am and have made it this far because I have you all by my side.

Love,

“Lil Sis”