To My Little Sister,

Looking back, it's hard to believe that I graduated high school almost three whole years ago. Now, it's even harder to believe that it is finally your last day of high school and in just a few weeks, you will be graduating as well. I know the last day can be bittersweet and overwhelming, so I have some tips for you to ensure that you have the best possible last day ever:

1. Take lots of pictures - both mental and with your actual camera!

Take pictures with your friends, your classmates and even maybe your teachers — looking back, you'll be glad you have pictures from the last day.

2. Don't feel embarrassed about crying — let it out! (You'll be surprised at how many other people will be crying too.)

I remember watching dozens of people burst into tears — even the people who I least expected to or swore they didn't care. It's okay to be sad!

3. Don't be afraid to tell people how much of an impact they have had on your life the past 12 years.

You've known these people for most of your life and who knows when the next time you'll see them will be. I went up to some people I met back in kindergarten or fifth grade and cried to them about how we've grown up together and how we've shared some awesome memories.

4. Following this, make sure you tell everyone how much they mean to you.

If someone in your class always made your day better, tell them! You'll end up making their day better, too.

5. Tell your favorite teacher how much you've learned from them.

I can guarantee they'll appreciate it.

6. Get as many people to sign your yearbook as possible!

The more the merrier! Whenever I look back at my yearbook, it's cool to see all the different signatures I have from people I may not have talked to in awhile.

7. Don't waste the day getting all your friends to sign your yearbook, you'll see them all summer: focus on the people you won't see outside of school!

I wish I paid more attention to this. If you spend half the day signing your friends' yearbooks who you'll see every day for the next few months, you'll miss out on signing so many other yearbooks!

8. Take it all in and enjoy it!

Make the most of it — I am so proud of you.

With all my love,

Your Sister