Dear Little Sib,

I know that you've been looking forward to this time for so long, and I couldn't be more excited for you. I was in your shoes just a few years ago, but it just doesn't seem real that you are already catching up to me. Sooner or later, you'll be in college right by my side and I just can't fathom the fact you are graduating high school so soon. Whether I like it or not, you're growing up and it's becoming harder to call you my "little" sibling.

I know that you have a lot of negative thoughts about the high school you are leaving, and I can't blame you because I was the same way for a long time... but, I've had some time to think since then and I want to try and keep some of those positive memories in your head as well. Think of the good times as you leave to go far away from home, because you will miss it.

Think about your best friends, the easy classes, the familiar hallways, the school dances, your favorite extra curricular activities, sports, and anything else that made you smile. High school isn't all that terrible and I know you had some good times. Changes are going to be a frequent in your upcoming years. Change of town, school, friends, dorms, and lots else. So, keep those familiar memories close to home.

I'm telling you this now, not to try and force you to come all sympathetic around graduation or be nice to the mean girls, or even patch up lose ties, but so you think of what you want to do before you leave, and how you want to leave your mark as a senior of 2016.

Although graduation practices, graduation itself, and all of the graduation parties get old, enjoy them! They only happen once and it's an unforgettable experience. Growing up in a small town you will be graduating in a very small class, take pride in knowing every name that gets called and having a memory with all of your high school friends.

I also wanted to tell you that your whole life isn't high school. I am so excited for you because you and I both have always had an excitement of leaving high school and moving on to college. It's your time.You'll be going on your college orientation, meeting new friends, finding your dorm, and moving away from home for the first time in your life, scary right? Thankfully you picked the best college in the world (Ohio University) where your big sister will be right here if you need anything.

But, even if you didn't pick the same school as me I know you would be just fine. You are strong minded, independent, intelligent, and driven! Congratulations on such a milestone.

Love,

Your Big Sib