Dearest Little Sister,

There are no words that can describe how proud I am of you in this moment. After years of watching you blossom into the remarkable young woman you have become, I couldn't be more blessed with having you as my first and forever best friend. But as I send you your good morning text on this day, I've wondered, where has all time the gone?

What happened to us playing in grandma's daisies, dressed in matching outfits?

How long ago was it that we were in bunk-beds sharing the same bedroom? Or when we'd ride our Razor scooters around our neighbor's cul-de-sac?

Those memories, although many years ago, appear fresh in my mind as some of the fondest with you. Yes, we argued, but all siblings do. Whether it was over snacks, the TV or who had to do the dishes, we could never stay mad at each other for too long. Because through all the trials and tribulations in the past seventeen years of our sisterhood, I would remember how much I love you.

But those simple times of nursery rhymes have come and gone. Time has past and now you are entering the end of your high school career. It seems so unreal. You're no longer the little sister I always had by my side wanting to play My Little Ponies with me, but an empowered, independent woman who's preparing to take on the world.

It breaks my heart knowing that I'm at college, four-hundred miles away from you, while you're taking on the most important year of your life thus far. I want to be able to cheer you on from the sidelines of every activity you're involved in, I want to see you shine and take center stage in your final performances and to hold you and be a shoulder to cry on when the days get too dark. You may not want me by your side 24/7, but just know that I would be on the road at the drop of a hat, coming home if you ever needed me.

Just remember that no matter what happens this year, take time to really soak it in. Every interaction in the hallway, every piece of advice a teacher gives you, whether good or bad. Every moment with you friends. Every family dinner at the table. Take in every memory because you're going to miss it. There will be moments after high school where you will look back on your senior year and remember how you felt whether it was the best or worst experience of your life so far. All I want is for you to look back and smile when you need to, but always look forward to the future. There is not a doubt in my mind that you are going to be successful in life and if there are ever moments where you feel like the entire world has turned against you, know that I will always be your number one supporter.

But for now, take it easy. Take a deep breath. Make this your year and don't look back. Just always remember that I am so proud of you and that I love you.

With unconditional love,

Your Big Sister