A birthday brag for my big sis.

We're adorable.

Dear Julie,
Here is a big old birthday thank you for my big old sister. Julie, I have truly been blessed with an amazing big sister in you. I want to thank you for stepping up when you needed to and in a sense sacrificed much of your childhood so that the rest of us could still have one. Thank you for playing Barbies, My Little Pony, school, and even homicide detective with me every time I asked. And not just played, but contributed and made it even more fun. (I especially thank you for not making all the Kens fight like Josh and Stephen).
Thank you for being a teacher, a playmate, my cheerleader. Even when I failed every time you taught me it was worth trying.

Julie, there have been times that you had to step up into a new role. At times you sacrificed much of your  childhood to preserve ours. Being nearly six and a half years older than me you were more than capable of teaching me my colors, how to read, how to tie my shoe, among many other things. Some of my favorite memories with you are late Christmas Eves waiting for Santa.

Julie, you continue to be the most thoughtful person I know. You might have a tough exterior but I'm pretty sure you're a big old softie. You continue to cheer me on in my endeavors and be one of my biggest supporters in life. When you took me to San Diego as a college graduation present I was floored by your generosity and had one of the best times of my life. And when you stood by me as my maid of honor I knew that I had your support as I married my new best friend. I love being an aunt beside you to Ollie and now Meemo. It makes me excited for you to be an aunt to my children because I know they're getting the best.

You're probably going to hate that I'm bragging about you, but I don't think I brag about you enough. I could go on and on about what you do and how I can look to you for stability. But I can also look to you for a good time. You are hilarious and witty (like all us Ekhoffs really) and I love hearing what you're going to say. You also have one of the best smiles ever so seeing you laugh makes me happy too. Sure you can drive me crazy but I guarantee I drive you even more crazy. We're sisters for goodness sakes! But I love the hell out of you :)

Today the brains of geniuses are in your hands as you teach gifted kids biology and AP environmental science. From the sounds of it, the kids love your sense of humor and teaching style. Just like everything, you pour yourself into them and cheer them on at science competitions the same way you cheered me on (and they win!). It's really not surprising that you're a teacher since it mixes something you're really good at (teaching) with something you love (summers off!)

Julie, thank you for everything you've done for me and our family. Thank you for being all that you are. You were my first hero and you still are my hero to this day. I hope you have a wonderful birthday. I wish I could be there to be a part of it.
Thanks for always being there and for never giving up on me. I love you and miss you so much!
Happy birthday seester!