Dear Ana,
I know you are too young to understand what leaving for college is like, but I want to tell you that leaving you was the hardest part. Most siblings are old enough where they are to talk on the phone and come visit every once in awhile, but that's different when you are 11 years apart. You truly are my best friend and I wish I was able to bring you with me to Eau Claire. I feel like I am missing out on one of the biggest stages of your life. You're making new friends and starting sports and I wish I was there to watch that. I miss waking up on the weekends to you and your friends playing in the play room. I miss hearing your voice from the other room. I miss hearing your crazy stories because they always make me laugh and smile. I miss you because you are my best friend. As much as I love Eau Claire, I wish I was closer to home so that I could come visit you more often. Though in the grand scheme of things, four years is nothing, but right now it feels like a life time. I hope you are making friends that will last a long time. Don't put up with others who bring you down or tell you that you can't do something. Find friends, regardless of what gender they are, who encourage you to pursue your dreams and make you a better person. You are capable of anything you set your mind to. Please always remember that Ana. Eight years of watching you grow has been incredible. You are becoming such a sweet and lovable girl. Every time I come home, I look forward to having a sleepover together and staying up late watching Grey's Anatomy. You make coming home worthwhile. As you grow up, please know that you are always able to come to me for anything. I know that we very far apart in age, but hopefully that will help you trust with me anything you need. I want long conversations with you, sharing secrets, and telling me about your day. I want dinner dates and binge watching our favorite shows. I want you to be happy. You will always be my little sister and I will protect you from ex-boyfriends, awful and rude high school girls, and so much more. Lastly, I want you to know that I love you more than anything and always will. You are one of the best things that has ever happened to me, and I am so thankful to be able to call you my sister.