Dear Hattie,

You already know how much I love you, but I am not sure if you are aware exactly how proud I am of you. I have guided you as a role model big sister, I have seen you grow up, and I have witnessed your work-ethic. I have observed your growth and perseverance every day, year-round in not only softball, but specifically in pitching. I have seen you studying and working on homework every school night. You updated me on your college applications; I am so proud of you for getting accepted into the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, and for applying to three other big colleges across the country.

I am writing this to tell you how proud I am of you and that wherever you go and whatever path you decide to take, I will always be by your side, even if I am not physically with you. Nothing can separate us; no matter the distance, no matter the location, I feel that you are always there with me, and I hope that I am always there with you, each step of the way. And it will not matter which university you end up choosing. Do not stress about your choice. You will be happy wherever you go. The college experience is what you make of it. If you are pessimistic and unhappy with your situation, then you will close your mind off to the wonderful opportunities that your college has to offer. And the places that you chose have SOOO many opportunities, just waiting for YOU! Hattie, they are there for YOU! Never forget that; please make the most of your college experience, even though I know that it is still months away.

If I had any college advice to give, it would be to 1.) Stay safe 2.) Balance academics and social life 3.) Have fun!!!!! These will be the best years of your life, so I am told. Always, always call me right when a sticky situation pops up out of nowhere because those will happen occasionally; I already have been in your shoes, so I can help you make the right decision. Know that mom, dad, Katniss, and I are always there for you, and never feel that we are far away. We love you, and we would be there ASAP if you ever needed anything, even just moral support.

Lastly, now that you know how proud I am of you, HAPPY 18^TH BIRTHDAY! How are you an adult already? Yes, you are mature and intelligent, but how did you get to be so old so fast? I still see you as my little, innocent, sometimes sensitive sister! <3 Just because you are 18 does not mean that the world suddenly changes; I even learned that with turning 21. Even though you can now buy lottery tickets, drink legally in Canada, become an organ donor, get a tattoo, get a piercing, sign papers without mom and dad, buy cigarettes, vote, get into 18+ clubs, and get a job that is not babysitting, don’t go too crazy. ;) I know you won’t. Enjoy this year, you are my favorite football player’s—Randall Cobb’s—number!

I love you, my delirious and crazy little sister! Never stop being your unique Roberts girl self.

Love,

Kenzie

P.S. You know you love me. <3