Dear Melissa,

I have had the privilege to not only watch you grow up but to be able to grow up with you. Six years is a lot but it also isn't at the same time. We are only six years apart but at times it feels like we are less than that. I would consider you one of my best friends even though you are six years younger than me and we do not talk very often.

You have a very good head on your shoulders and you are very smart. I love the kindness you have and I'm constantly impressed at how mature you are.

Next year you will be in high school. That is a huge step. This is where things start to change and you will have to start making more and more decisions that will impact your life in many different ways. The first big decision you will make is what high school you go to. And we all know where I want you to go. *cough cough* Sussex Tech *cough cough wink* It is an amazing high school with lots of opportunities. But in the end, it is ultimately your decision. Here are two pieces of advice I will give you for this.

1.) Go where you will have the most opportunities

2.) Follow what your heart says

You already have a good idea of what you want to do with your life and that is amazing because the earlier you know, the more quickly you can start on the path that will lead you there.

You are 13 and you know you want to work at NASA. I am 19 and I still have no idea what I truly want to do.

Yes, I am an Early Education major, but who knows if that will be what I want to do in two years let alone six months. But do not let that discourage you. You will go on to do amazing things with your life.

It's time for me to give you some more advice.

1.) No matter what life throws at you remember, you will always have your family. We may not always be the sanest all the time but we are always there for you no matter what.

2.) Listen to your heart. This is a piece of advice that took me a long time to actually listen to. It will be hard when your heart is telling you one thing and other people are telling you other things. And with that here is my next piece of advice:

3.) Not only listen to your heart, but also listen to the advice and words from the people that love you. Do not blow off what they said just because it was not the same as what your heart says. Their opinions and advice matter. Always listen to it and take it into account. Also, make it known that you appreciate their advice because that will go a long way.

4.) As you get older, make your opinion known because it is important. And as you get older people will think that if you don't say anything you are alright even if you aren't. So if something is going on, let it be known because there isn't anyone who would want you to go through anything alone.

5.) As you get older you will lose friends. Even the ones you believe to be your best friends, and that's okay. That is a big part of life and you will lose some but you will also gain some. A lot of friends you make in high school you will lose contact with once you go to college. Take it from me (since I'm in college and that happened). But you will make new friends.

Always remember I love you and that I will always be here for you.

And one more thing for you to remember:

You're doing amazing, sweetie.

Love forever and always,

Kaitlynn