I knew from an early age that I was stuck with you, no matter what. But, you were my mom’s best friend, and I was happy to have you around—until you weren’t anymore.

I was always tagging along with you guys, but I never felt like I was a burden, in fact, I felt like you wanted me around. I was the daughter you never had, nor wanted. When I got too sassy or sugar hyped, you’d just give me back. It was a win-win; I got everything I wanted and you got a daughter-like relationship.

I knew I was always in for a fun time with you around. Whether that be a sugar high, McDonald's, or a swim in the deep end without floaties. You were always there to giving me a loving push when I needed to be pushed past my limits. You weren’t going to let me get away with mediocracy and you knew when I had more potential than I was showing.

The funny thing is though, we both knew how to get just what we wanted from each other. If I wanted a toy from McDonald's, I threw a fit until I got it or you threatened me with your friendship to my mother—something you knew I was never willing to risk.

But I want you to know, even at five it was way more than that—you were someone I treasured, too. And had life not had other plans, I know for a fact, you’d be one of my best friends today as well.

At heart, you were just a “big kid” and living life right alongside me. You always wanted the best for me, and for that I’m forever grateful. I want you to know I wouldn’t be half the person I am today without your loving encouragement and your willingness to push me to be my best.

Thank you, thank you, thank you—for everything. Thank you for helping me (and my mom) get through the toughest times in our lives. Or being there when my jaw locked. Thank you for teaching me that a little sass helped beat any demon and that being daring is okay. Thank you for all the sugar past my bedtime or extending it “just because you were bored.” But most of all, thanks for the memories, because life can’t ever take those away from me, even though they took you.

When I was 13, life took you away from me and my mother. Instead of walking through life with us, you were watching over us from… wherever you are.

It’s been 7 and ½ years without you, and let me tell you, it hasn’t gotten any easier. I still cry thinking about where life would’ve taken us. But most of all, I miss that you’re not here for my mom, because she needs you more than I do.

There’s not a day that goes by that a memory of you doesn’t bring a smile (& a tear) to my face.

I miss you every day, Aunt Cathie!