My Dearest Little Sister,

First, I want you to know how proud I am of you. Things haven’t always been easy, especially after Dad passed away. We had to learn how to function in a world without him. It was hard adjusting, but you did it. We’ve had our fights. We’ve both said very hurtful things to each other. But then we apologized and went right back to normal.

No words could explain how happy I am that we have grown so close over the past few years. You were the first best friend I’ve ever had, and you’ve always had my back, no matter what we were going through. We could be mean to each other but if anyone else was, we wouldn’t take kindly to that. It’s insane to think of how quickly time is going by. And now here you are, becoming a first-time mom.

You couldn’t have chosen someone better to have a baby with. He loves and cares about you so much and anyone that is around him can see that. Even though he was scared, he was so happy to be a dad. He loves you and the baby so much, it’s so refreshing to see—especially in a young couple.

There are a lot of people who are proud of you. Dad would have been proud of you in a way words can’t explain. You’ve come a long way from being the tear-streaked five-year-old on the first day of school that had her dad pick her up because she wanted to go home. Now in five years, you’ll be sending your son off to his first day of school.

You are going to be such a great mom. I know you’re probably scared, but you know I’ll always be there to help you in any way that I can. You’ll always have my support, even with all the things we’ve been through. You and your little family mean everything to me. I would give you my last penny just so that you would have one. I’m so excited to see what the future holds for you. I’m excited to watch my nephew grow and to continue watching you grow into a woman.

I love you more than words could ever say.

Sincerely,

One proud big sister.