Dear Lexis,

You are now entering your first few weeks as a sophomore in high school. Enjoy it. Soon you'll be sixteen, officially a young adult. Your sophomore year is the best but it can also be the worst. This is when you'll be deciding to go to parties, your friends will start changing, your classes will get harder, the days get longer. Be prepared for change, not only mentally, but physically, emotionally, and socially. And I am prepared to help you even when I'm 30 miles away.

I held you at birth, the 40-hour car drive, and when you cried. You have to admit I'm pretty awesome and I will always be your best friend no matter how much we fight. Friends will come and go, they will change, they will blow you off, but I'll always be here. One day you'll wake up and realize some of your friends aren't who you thought they were, but that's how life goes. People grow apart, mature faster than others, or some don't even at all. Keep yourself in mind, do what makes you happy, (and safe, of course) and if someone is really your friend, they won't leave. The best ones always stick to your side through thick and thin. If that boy leaves you, don't cry. It's a waste of time. Keep your head up, show him what he is missing out on. I'll be your best friend forever. As Gene in "Bob's Burgers" once said, "...from the womb to the tomb!"

People are going to be wearing different things, talking a certain way, but don't get lost in the click. You can still go with the crowd and stay on top of trends, but rock it in your own way. Be yourself and everyone will love you. Don't act a certain way for certain people, because there are people who will love you for you and not just for who you're with or what you wear. You're beautiful in your own way, don't give into pressure. You're a wonderful piece of art, let yourself blossom. Your junior year will be full of tests and you'll be pressured academically, so focus on yourself.

I love you Lexis, I'll always be your best friend forever.