To my little sister,

First off, Happy Birthday! Even though you turn a year older every year, I still picture the little girl running around in her 'Little Mermaid' nightgown, curly hair bouncing and chubby little legs going as fast as they could go.

Now that I'm away at college, I'm not there to witness your life firsthand. Other than those rare times that I am or you come to visit, everything is over the phone. But, here are some of my wishes for you as you take on this next year.

I wish you the best of luck in school.

Especially math. Academics will always be a challenge, but with some hard work, you can accomplish anything. You're also so much smarter than you give yourself credit for.

I wish you would stop worrying about other people's opinions.

I get that this is easier said than done. But, in years to come, you won't remember what style was trending or who was popular in school. You'll remember the fun times you had when you just let loose and were totally yourself.

I wish you would believe in yourself.

You are a tremendous kid. And you have so much to offer. Try not to doubt your brains, your talent, and most importantly, your worth. There is no one else who can truly showcase who you are- own it, and be proud of who you are.

All my love,

Your sister