My Dearest Sister,

You’re getting married in three months! The day we’ve dreamed of your entire life is just within reach. I honestly still can’t believe this is happening. Your flowers are picked out, your showers are ongoing, and most importantly, the dress is perfect and fits as if it were made for you. Everything is ready and I couldn’t be happier for you than I am in this moment.

But honestly, I'm a little sad, too.

You’ve been my best friend for nearly 20 years. You’ve been my person time and time again giving me wisdom and courage. And now you have a new person (the luckiest man on earth, in my opinion). He is everything I’ve prayed for for you and I love him like he’s my own brother. But in my heart, I already miss your constant presence.

With that being said, I want you to remember a few things before you say “I do.”

First things first, you will always be my sister. I know marriage can take you to far off places sometimes, but never expect me to stop calling. Sisters are best friends for life. And although life might take us in different directions, I will be in your heart always.

Keep God in your heart and on your mind. I wouldn’t know first hand, but from what I’ve heard marriage can be pretty hard at times. Although you might be in la-la love land right now, those rough times will come eventually. Prepare yourself for this amazing but emotional journey by remembering who stole your heart first. Jesus is the string that ties together a marriage. Keep Him in your heart and on your mind always.

Dance parties at midnight aren’t forbidden when you’re married. These. Can. Never. Stop. Ever.

Be patient. Your family loves you so much and you moving away can be hard to accept. Please be patient with us adjusting. We are so ecstatic for you; its just the fear of losing you that is difficult.

Never stop loving princesses as much as you made me love them too. You love Disney princesses so much; I’ve always thought you were one. I remember when you were obsessed with "Tangled." You even said at Thanksgiving one year that it was what you were most thankful for. Never lose the love of those songs and movies, and the joy and special bond it’s brought our relationship.

Thank you. Thank you for your wisdom. For your kindness. For letting me sit at the senior lunch table as a freshman because I literally had no friends. For letting me borrow your favorite shirt. For always being honest, even when it hurt. Thank you for being the best sister I could ask for.

And finally, don’t you forget about me. If you’re thinking of the song by Simple Minds, yes. That’s exactly what I mean. Don’t forget about me in all your lovey-doveyness of marriage.

So, it’s all a little bittersweet but your joy brings me joy. And your wedding day will be a day we will remember for the rest of our lives. I’m just so glad I get to be a part of it. I can’t wait to celebrate the beginning of your love-filled life with your new husband!

With all the love I possess in my heart,

Your Sister