Dear Bub,

I’m not going to lie. I knew leaving for college was going to be the hardest move I’ve made to date. When you were first born, I didn’t realize how close we were going to become. Though you are only eight, we have a bond stronger than glue. Over the years, we have become best friends. We pick each other up when we are down and support each other in all the adventures we unravel in life.

After going to Accepted Student’s day at Merrimack College, I had made my choice to go here. I had gotten you a Merrimack sweatshirt and called to let our family know the news. When the phone was handed to you, you were so proud. I could hear the phone echo with you screaming: “My sister is to going to Merrimack!”. After we picked you up, you gave me the biggest and warmest hug.

Months after I had made my choice for college, you approached me asking: “if we could speak in private”. We walked into your room and you told me: “I don’t think I can do this”. I know I was supposed to be the strong one, but at that moment I couldn’t help but cry. I held your hand and let you know that everything was going to be alright. I needed to go to college. Going to college is what I’ve always dreamed of doing. I explained that you had to be strong and learn to live on your own, but I would always be there to support you and love you.

In the months before I left, I made the most of every day I had with you, because I knew I wouldn’t be able to see you too often when I was at college. We took trips to the beach, ice cream shops and played in the backyard.

Currently, it is a little over a month into college, and I miss you more than ever. I’m not home to see you play at your soccer games, hear about your Brownie troop or watch you at gymnastics. I only get to hear about your days at school on the phone. Yes, it’s even weird not picking you up at the bus stop every weekday.

Now is your time to shine! I was an only child for 11 years and now it’s your time to experience the advantages (and disadvantages) of being an only child! You’re so smart and have so much going for you. There is no doubt in my mind that while I’m away for my journey, you will create a journey of your own. College is an indescribable experience for not only myself, but yourself as well. This gives you the chance to become an independent person and reach your full potential, but know that I will always be here to support you.

Remember, I am only a phone call away.

Love always,

~Bubby