{To My Little (not-so-little anymore) Brother}

Yesterday was little brother's birthday. Sometimes I forget that we are grown-ups and not little kids running around in the yard or playing basketball in the church parking lot. Time flies.

I am sure I would have never earned the "Big Sister of the Year" award. I was most likely being bossy or sassy. On a good day, I was probably making you play some kind of game that you didn't really want to play or curling your hair and dressing you up like a life-sized barbie doll. And, I laughed when dad plugged up the vacuum and gave you a bad haircut with the flowbe. (You have to admit, it was funny!) It's a wonder you survived. You were a good little brother. And I know you thought I was cool - even if you won't admit it in a million years. You still think I'm cool, right?

I joke about how I taught you everything you know and how you got all your coolness and wit from growing up with me. The truth is - I think you really are awesome.

You. Are. Awesome.

I am so glad that God picked me to your big sister. I'm so glad that we grew up to be friends. Sometimes, I wish you lived right around the corner so we could take our fabulous spouses and go on a double date. Or, we could get together and make music, just for fun. I wish my kids could spend more time with you and Auntie T. They would be crazy about you. Even more than they already are. But, it's ok. Why? Because God is using you right where you are to do great things.

I love watching you do and be what God has intended for you to do and be. I admire your courage and your patient endurance. I admire your obedience. I love watching you lead worship. Above all, I admire your love for Jesus. You are a beautiful picture of God's grace - a masterpiece, a treasure.

We are celebrating you from across the miles. We are thankful for you. We love you. Happy birthday!