To My Niece Who's More Like A Sister,

My Olivia, Liv, Liverooski, "Pineapple",

I'm so glad you came into my life when I was only 8-years-old. You were the VERY younger sister I never had, granted my closest sister in age was 18 at the time. You are all grown up now, you'll be eleven this year! It still amazing me all the milestones I've watched you reach and experience.

I love being your aunt. Yes, I love all the weird puberty questions you ask, and I love watching what you learned this week in dance class. I love driving you to school...and then coming back to drop off your lunch you forgot. To anyone else, a niece or nephew is simply a family member they see at holidays. But for me, you are the younger sister who I see way too little.

The world is your open canvas, and I can't wait to see the picture you create. I have several words of advice you need to take to heart as you enter middle school in the fall.

Never give up on your passions

Whether it's playing your trumpet or showing pigs in the summer, keep doing these things that make you happy. They will not only teach you a sense of responsibility but allow you to meet some extraordinary people along the way. Who knows, you may even continue to do these things in college! Some of the leaps of faith I made granted me new passions that changed me. Always keep doing what you love.

Kindness is rare

Always be kind to however you meet. You never know how their lives are on a deeper level. You come home from school some days just furious at a girl or are quick to judge somebody in your class. Just treat everybody you meet with kindness, for they may be living a lie full of nothing but negativity. The next time a group of girls gives you a dirty look in the hallway, smile at them. Help somebody pick their books if they fall between classes. Always be kind.

Don't fight fire with fire

As I said above, some girls tend to get under your skin. Trust me, this won't get any easier as you get older. What I do know is the only way to be happy is to not fight back aggressively. One day you told me a girl called you by some pretty inappropriate names, and you were immediately going to retaliate back. However, after talking to me you calmed down and simply did not let it get to you. This is extremely wise, Liv. Fires don't get put out by stoking the flame.

Look up from your screen

I'm sure you have been told hundreds of times how fortunate you are to have such access to technology. With phones and tablets being given to children younger and younger, you receiving a phone at 9 was no shock. And although the intention was to have it only for communication, the world of apps roped you in. Look up from your iPhone. Don't roll over and check your notifications right as you wake up. Don't snap a picture every time you go someplace exciting, instead just take the time to enjoy the moment and those around you.

Be thankful

Never take what people do for you for granted. Your family makes sacrifices for you often, and don't expect a thank you. All we ask from you is to be appreciate and thankful that so many people love you. You have an entire army behind you making sure your happiness is the top priority and that you will never have to worry a day in your life.

We have so many memories that I will enjoy for the rest of my life. You have brought happiness, patience, and gratitude into my life and will always be your biggest fan. I can be the older sister you always wanted, even though I never signed up for the journey.