In August, I started a new life away from my family. I picked up and created a new routine and it included new people and new places. But through all of this, there has been one constant… I still have a sister back home. Though we don’t talk every day, I miss her more than I think she’ll ever know.

So, to my sister- this one’s for you.

To my sister…

You make me proud to be your sister.

Dude, you are literally everything I ever wanted to be. I’m so proud of who you are, what you’ve accomplished and so much more. Keep doing you because that’s amazing.

I’m always here.

No, I haven’t always been the most reliable sister and I know there were times you hated me. But I hope you know how much your friendship means to me to show you how much I want you to understand that I’m always a phone call away.

I never want to grow apart from you.

Always be my best friend. Always stay up late talking to me about boys. Always keep me up to date on the latest gossip with your friends. Never let go of what we have.

My favorite memories from childhood usually include you.

Remember when we laid in the laundry baskets and watched Winnie the Pooh? Me too. Remember when we literally moved your bed into mine? Me too. Remember when I came home for a weekend and you ran into my room to sleep with me? Me too.

Thanks for making me laugh so hard I cry.

You are the funniest person I know. I seriously can’t think of anyone who can make me laugh as hard as you do. Thank you! Because at times, I need that. Always be you.

Thanks for telling me when I need to stop acting like an idiot.

You’ve never been afraid to tell me when I was being dumb and although it was hard to hear at times, I knew you were right. You usually are. So… thanks.

Thanks for giving me wise advice.

You’ve blown me away at times with how wise your words can be when I’m going through something tough. You handle things with more wisdom and grace than I ever did at your age. I look up to you in that way.

Thanks for not making the same mistakes I did.

Ha, I mean… I don’t know what else to say. I think this one speaks for itself.

You’re an inspiration.

Actually... you're MY inspiration. You’re kind. You’re smart. You’re beyond talented in the things you love to do. You’re dedicated and you have a heart for other people. You are amazing.

I’m sorry.

I’m sorry I sucked as a sister. I know it wasn’t fair to you at all. I’m sorry that I let other things come first and I’m sorry that when I went through that awkward stage in middle school you weren’t as important as my flip phone…

I love you.

I love you. Plain and simple. For all the kind things you do for me and for others. You truly are my best friend and I treasure everything I have with you. Thank you.