You were taken far too soon. It's not fair, I didn't have you for long enough. Why do the bad things happen to the good people?

It's been nine years and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you. When you left, I had to be strong for mom because she had to take care of everything. But when it was all said and done, I was curled up in the closet crying.

It's been nine years and you've missed so much. You didn't get to see me baptized, start cheerleading, graduate high school, get my first job, or have my first real boyfriend. It hurts to know you won't see me graduate college, get married, or have kids. But, I know you are watching over from Heaven. I can always feel your presence.

It scares me because Kylie was only 6 when you left us. I worry about what she remembers. I'm scared because I can barely remember your voices. But I am thankful because I remember grandpa's love for hats, grandma's love for scrabble, and a shared love of card games. I remember big Christmases, the mess of making chicken and dumplings, running down the hall away from the tickle monster, and most of all, I remember the love you showed me. Your love was overwhelming, safe, and unfaltering.

To you Grandpa and Grandma, Ray and Joy, I miss you, I love you, I hope I do you proud. I will show the love you gave me to as many people as I can. Your memory will live on through the stories we tell and you will never be forgotten.

I'll give mom a hug and kiss for you. I know you'd give us all one. Keep watching over, OK? I love you.