Just a few days ago, my boyfriend arrived for a visit in Fredonia. He brought me a few things from home, one of which was a piece of artwork from my little sister. It consists of her school picture glued to a piece of white paper, a bunch of hand-drawn sad faces, and big, red handwritten letters which say "I MISS YOU! Love, Emily"

There are almost 8 years between Emily and I, but we shared a room at home and did an awful lot together. Like I believe that almost all little siblings do, she has the power to drive me up a wall, but in the end, she's also my sidekick and little best friend. Watching her grow up has been quite the adventure, and so I figured there was no better way to respond to her mail than to write her a letter. She's too young for social media, so my mom will have to show her, but I guarantee that she will see it one way or another.

Dear Emily,

Let me start off by saying that I miss you too. In fact, way more than I thought possible. When I got that picture that you made for me, it reminded me about all the fun we have whenever we spend time together.

Seeing how grown up you look in your school picture oddly reminded me of when you were first born. I was so excited to find out that I had a little sister, and it's really crazy to think that 11 years has gone by since then. You've done a lot of growing up during that time, and so have I.

I'll admit that sometimes you can drive me crazy, but I also love you unlike anybody else. I miss getting to see your silliness every day, helping you with your homework, those nights where I babysat and we'd have our little dinner dates, and so much more about all of the things that we get to do together when I'm home.

I also want you to know that no matter where I go in life or how far away I am, I will always be here for you as your big sister. If there's ever anything that you need to talk about, I'm only a text or a FaceTime call away. I know that growing up isn't easy all the time, but I've been through it, and even if you don't think so, I probably have the answers to anything you may be wondering about.

Even though you're only in sixth grade now, before you know it, you'll be in college just like me. I'm sure you wish right now that you could be all grown up, but it will happen so much faster than you think. So, make sure that you have fun with everything that being a kid has to offer!

Pretty soon, you'll be coming to Fredonia with mom and dad to visit me. I'm really excited for that day, because I know I'll get to see you with a big smile on your face, probably laughing about something very silly. When you get here, we're going to have fun just like we always do at home! Until that day comes, just remember that your artwork is getting a special spot in my college dorm.

Love,

Amanda