Where did the time go? It seems like just yesterday we were playing secretary with mom's old typewriter and you were jipping me out of all the good office supplies. It seems like just yesterday we were writing catty things about each other in our "secret" diaries. It seems like just yesterday I could actually call you my little sister. In the blink of an eye, you've transformed into the most incredible young woman I've ever met (I know I sound like mom, but bear with me). As you get ready to apply for college and start your own life, there are some things I want you to remember.

No matter where life takes us, there is nothing that can break the bond we have. Whether we're four hours or four hundred miles from each other, we will always be inseparable. You will always be my little sister and there's no one in the world that can ever come close to replacing you. You're my best friend, my go-to, my therapist, my style icon and the only person I can make fun of the rest of our family with. You are irreplaceable. Distance is nothing for us. I've been by your side since the day you were born and nothing will change that.

You're about to embark on a whole new part of your life and it's okay to be nervous. Going off to college (and beyond) is supposed to be a little scary. It's something you've never done before, but I promise that you will adjust quicker than you think. Don't let the nerves overshadow the excitement. This goes for everything you try in life.

Remember who you are and where you came from. Remember who has been there for you and who has helped shape you. Always stay grounded no matter where you are in life. Our family, our hometown, our friends - they will always be a part of you even if you feel distant from it all.

Most importantly, don't underestimate yourself. It kills me to hear you sell yourself short because honestly you are one of the greatest (if not THE greatest) people I know. I'm not just saying that because you're my little sister and I'll think you're incredible no matter what you do. I truly believe that you have so much more potential than you even know or give yourself credit for. You're incredibly intelligent, charismatic, funny, beautiful (inside and out), hardworking - the list is endless. There is no doubt in my mind that everything you do will end in success.

So when life gets rough or overwhelming, remember these little things because I truly mean them. You have been changing my life since the day you were born. You're my support system, my best friend, my source of comedic relief and the most important person in my life. I have no doubt that you can change the world like you've changed mine.