Baby B,

I miss you.

Wow, it feels so weird to have to say that. Up until the day we left for school, I had always known what was happening in your life, because I was living it next to you. We did homework together, brushed our teeth side-by-side in the morning, and drove to school (late. always late.) listening to whatever 80s rock album you had chosen for that day.

Since Kindergarten, we had repeated a similar routine each day, until our senior year of high school came and went in the blink of an eye. We decided to attend two different colleges. Going away to school would basically be the longest we’d spend apart since the 20 minutes I spent alone in the world before you were born. I believed college would be my time to find who I was on my own, and I knew in my heart it would be the same for you.

I honestly didn't think I would miss you when we went off to separate colleges. I thought, yes I'll finally have my name said without someone mentioning yours within the next few seconds. I won’t have to ride shot-gun in your smelly car anymore and listen to 80s rock. But...

I miss the arguments, your never ending jokes, your inability to cook for yourself, picking on each other, having math class together, your personality, the small talks before and after school, getting on your nerves and nagging you. I can try to pretend it isn't fun having you around, but I've honestly treasured every second growing up with you.

You've always been there for me. You won't let anyone else pick on me except for you, not even our little sister. If I am upset you will notice before anyone else and calm me down in that unassuming way of yours. You have both literally and figuratively picked me up whenever I needed the support, and I am forever grateful.

I know as we got older, we grew apart. We both became interested in different things but you still supported me in all my endeavors. I appreciate every musical and performance you loyally (and miserably) sat through. I appreciated the effort you always made.

I know I don't say this enough, but I support you more than you know. Whatever path you take in life, I'll be on the sidelines as your number one fan. Making people proud of you isn't always easy, but I have been proud of you from day one because you are my day one.

Love always,