As I sit here, trying to find the words to say, I can't help but smile at the fact that you are looking down from heaven. 10 years, you've been gone. Way too soon for my liking. It feels like it happened just yesterday.

Just yesterday, I was an 8 year old girl, being told that my 4 year old sister wasn't coming home.

Now I sit at my desk, 25 days until college move in day, telling myself that yes, you weren't coming home. You were going home. You were going home to Grandpa Poole, who passed away the same day as you, only quite a few years prior, Grandpa Russ, Great-Grandpa Henry, and all of the other wonderful family members I've not yet met.

Even though I know this truth, even though I remind myself of that truth daily, I still miss you like crazy. It brings me to tears when I think about you. I ask myself, "Is she proud of me?". Are you proud of me? Am I making you proud as I embark on this new and scary journey?

As I start my college adventure in 25 days, I will never forget you. I'll bring your memory and your bubbly, loving personality wherever I go. I wish you were here on earth to help me through it, but I know you give much more support in Heaven.

All my love,

Your big sis on earth.