Dear Melonie,

Growing up, I always felt like I had two moms in life. I had my mom, and I had you, Melonie, her twin sister. You were so similar that sometimes it could be overwhelming, but it's something that I grew to love immensely. When my mom passed away I felt as though I'd lost all of her, but a part of her still lives on through you. You've grown to be my hero, and the hero that I aspire to be.

You have always been there for me, and you have never judged me or made me feel like I didn't belong anywhere. You have always welcomed me with loving arms, and you have made your home my home. Whenever the time comes that I have to leave after visiting, I almost always cry on the way back to campus.

When I look at you, I see a beautiful aunt, mother, friend, and wife. And I also see my mom. I see her in your eyes, your smile. I can hear her in your laugh and your voice. It's so bittersweet to hear you play the piano because it's like I'm listening to my mom play again.

You never fail to make me laugh, whether we're being dorks together, or I'm showing you an inappropriate song and I can't handle your reaction. I am so thankful for all of the times we've laughed together and even all of the times that we've cried together. You continue to support me and you tell me that it's okay to cry, which I am so incredibly grateful for. I will never forget all of the times that I have been able to talk to you on such a personal level, almost as if I were talking to my mom again.

You continue to inspire me every single day and I hope to be as strong as you someday. You lost your best friend in life, and yet you continue to find beauty in the simplest things every day. You continue to laugh and smile and keep going even on the toughest days of the year. I am so proud to call you my aunt, my second mom. Without you in my life, I know that I wouldn't be half the woman that I am today. I am 100% positive that my mom is so proud of you as well.

You contain so much love and faith in your heart, and it's my wish to be as supportive as you. You hold your loved ones so close and love them unconditionally, and you are so kind to every single person that you meet.

Thank you, for always encouraging me even when I have been so afraid that I sat on the floor crying. Thank you for supporting my dreams and helping me believe that I can achieve them. Thank you for helping me discover the love that I deserve. You have done more for me than you will ever know, and I will never, ever be able to repay you. I love you so much.

Sincerely,

Your niece and daughter, Nutmeg.