Dear (Not So) Little Sister,

I've been in your life since day one. I was one of the first people to meet your squished little baby face and hear your awful cry, but now you're grown up and not so little anymore. I wish I could stay by your side forever and walk you through the difficult times life will throw at you and be there for all of your celebrations, but both of our worlds are changing and before you know it we will both be "all grown up". I know I offer you advice frequently, whether you ask for it or not, but now I want to leave you with some of the most important life advice anyone can give.

High School-- High School sucks. Honestly, the people who tell you high school will be the best years of your life obviously hasn't ever done any living. You'll make friends that will occasionally stick close, but most of these friendships will fizzle out after graduation. Focus on your grades, don't compare yourself to your peers, and have fun. Play sports. Join band. Love art. Participate in FFA and FBLA. Go to every football and basketball game. Girls are going to be mean, and boys are going to be terrible. These are all stepping stones on your way to becoming an adult.

College-- It's weird to think about you going to college, and I don't like it when I think about my baby sister growing up. I fully believe, no matter what you choose to study, you are going to succeed and amaze yourself with what you are capable of doing. Go where you see yourself thriving, and study what you feel you will succeed best in. Don't be afraid to change your major. Play a sport if you have the chance. Join Greek Life. Go to football games and the homecoming parade. You'll be nervous and scared (I know I was) and you'll be on the quickest path to adulthood. You'll do great in the big, scary world. And I'll always be there to guide you.

Always remember to be kind to everyone and to shine your light on those people you meet. You never know when someone might need a smile or a hello. Be nice to mom and dad, you are their baby and soon their nest will be empty.

Watching you grow up has been amazing and terrifying. I can't wait to see what is next for my annoying, pain in the butt, baby sister.

Love,

Your Overprotective Older Sister