First off, congratulations! You made it through four years of hell at one of the most rigorous and demanding schools in the country and now you’re a 2^nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. You can finally take a deep breath and relax a little bit. I am so proud of you and I can’t wait to see what comes next. I’m sure mom is looking down at everything you’ve accomplished with a humongous smile on her face. Even though she couldn’t physically be there, she cheered the loudest as you walked across that stage.

Watching you graduate made me realize that I’m actually really excited about my own graduation. Although I wasn’t able to follow you to the Academy, I made my own path and I’m glad to be where I am. I can’t wait to see where I go from here. Now, I may be excited about graduation but I’m definitely not rushing it. With two years to go, I’m going to enjoy every second of it.

Second, you better come and visit me or I’m going to drag your ass to Tallahassee. We took a 30-hour road trip from Colorado to Florida and although I may not be the best road trip buddy, it better not be our last. I may annoy and hassle you every time I see you but that’s what sisters are for, right? Plus, you do the same thing to me so you have no room to complain. Even though it doesn’t always seem like it, I enjoy your company and I miss having you around all the time. It won’t be long before you get deployed on the other side of the country or overseas and I’ll rarely get to see you. So, come see me every now and then while you’re so close.

Regardless, keep in touch. FaceTime me, send me pictures from every place you go even the boring ones like Mississippi, and don’t forget to check in with me every once and a while. I like to know what you’re up to and how you’re doing. Plus, you always seem to have some kind of story to share. I may not be much of a talker but I love to listen. Keep sending me poems too. You’re amazing with words and I love to read them.

Third, enjoy yourself! You didn’t get your first-choice job but it’s not a bad one. Make the most out of it, you never know where it could lead. You might be Mr. Military Man now and the government will be up your ass 24/7 but that doesn’t mean you won’t have time to blow off steam and go a little wild. But only a little bit; too much and you’ll end up in trouble.

You’re already starting off with an adventure this summer and I have to say, I’m jealous. I wish I could join you. Instead, I’ll just live vicariously through you until I’m able to go on my own adventures. Again, send me lots and lots of pictures so I can see the beauty of the world from your eyes.

Last but not least, please be safe. You drive like a maniac and never sleep. One day it’ll take a toll on you and your health. Just remember that you’re not invincible even if you want to be.