"Happiest of birthdays sweet mal! I wish I could relive our memories when you were still in Cali and I rode in your car everyday. There are some things in life that you truly take for granted and don't realize how wonderful the memories are until they're gone.
Growing up with you was the dream and practically living at your house was another. I miss so dearly going to del taco and sitting in your living room watching movie after movie.
Life flies by, but I'm glad that even if we're in different states, I can still hold on to what once was. I'm so lucky to have grown so close to you and know that no matter what, our bond won't be broken. Even if we don't get to see each other or talk as much as we used to.
You are the real deal, Malory rush. Don't you ever settle for anything less. May the lord bless you throughout another year of life and may you cling to him in the darkest. I will forever be here for you no matter the distance and I can't wait for the day when we see each other again. I love you with my whole heart and I wish you the happiest day of birth.
Love always
-little sis aka Brookiemc the dopest of all dope"

This was the text I received this year on my birthday. I am not posting this to "brag about myself, or my birthday". However, I am using this to brag on my "little sister", and the place I grew up.

To my Unbiological little sister,

I was the youngest child growing up and forever longed for a little sister of my own. I never got a biological little sister, but God sure blessed me with you. Brooke, you have allowed me to be able to imagine what it's like to be an older sister.

Watching you grow up and turn into the absolutely wonderful, godly, and beautiful woman you are today has been a blessing. There are many times where I find myself sitting somewhere at my school, or in Texas and thinking about our memories.

You were always the light to my week, especially when you would allow me to treat you like my family. There was never a time when you were around that we weren't together. From church, to camp, to middle school rally, and even during plays.

You never judged me (unless it was needed), you always stood by my side. You watched my every move and allowed me to see how I could be better. You made me realize that I couldn't just do whatever I wanted, because I cared how you saw me.

You made me want to be better so I could make sure you had a great role model, and somebody you wouldn't be ashamed to look up to. I did well so you could see what it looked like, and I'm glad I could try to be that for you.

I don't know how much you actually looked up to me, but I hope I did a good enough job at being a big sister to you.

Because...

God didn't give me a little sister because she wouldn't have fit into our family, but he gave me you. My parents loved me as if you were one of their own, and I loved you as if you were given to us. I appreciate your mom and dad for allowing you to be as close to me as you were.

You live one thousand miles away, but I still get the privilege of watching you turn into the woman of God you are. Words cannot express how proud I am of you and all that you have done.

I wish that other girls like me could find a "little sister" to call their own. To share memories with and watch grow up. It has truly been something I'll cherish forever and try my hardest to never take for granted!

I love you, Brooke Tamera McNamara

From,
Your unbiological big sister