I never thought I would say I miss being scolded for making fun of you for watching Dr. Phil. The show got on my nerves, but coming home from class if I didn't hear his voice it would be too quiet for my liking. I miss having dinner with you, babysitting with you, being able to hug you, and our conversations. I just miss being able to see you on any given day, I for sure took it for granted.
I felt selfish missing you, because quarantining was the best option for you and your health.
Being a freshman in college, I had a busy schedule. When classes were moved to online after spring break, that took up most of my time trying to teach myself all the material. When I wasn't stressing myself out with school, I was probably working. The first few weeks I wasn't super concerned on when I would see you next, my mind was crowded with everything else going on. Seeing you four to five times a week to now maybe once a month eventually caught up to me.
The distancing of you really kicked in around the month of May, two months after it all began. Classes finally ended and you came over to say hello and catch up. However, it didn't feel real because of only meeting outside with the use of our masks and staying six feet apart. I took what I could get and enjoyed the time we had. It was sad knowing I couldn't celebrate your birthday with you, but at least you had your dogs and each other.
As you know, I turned 19 in July. I had a nice dinner with my parents and brothers, but it would be a lie to say it felt complete. It didn't feel right celebrating without you, I can't remember the last time we had a birthday dinner without you.
Classes start again in a few weeks and I have one class on campus. I'm for sure not going to get used to coming home to an empty driveway and a quiet house.
COVID-19 has made it hard to see you, and I never thought a phone call with you would bring me so much joy.
To the people who taught me how to love animals and to cherish family, I miss you more than you can imagine.