To My Sister, Danielle

If you asked me 20 years ago how excited I was to have a little sister I probably would have said, "not even a little" -- the years following her being born, I locked her out of my room, I threatened to flush her down the toilet when she annoyed me, pretended she didn't exist, used her as a decoy, made her cry, and lots of every mean thing big sisters do (only with 12 years in between us it was worse).

However, ask me how excited I was to have a little sister in the last 10 years, and I'd tell you "more than words". We've become more than sisters, we've become best friends. We know each others worst and best days. We've been through break ups and make ups. We've asked each other how to handle situations - whether we listen or not. We've fought, we've laughed...and we've made each other cry.  Ok, mostly me making her cry... but I can't help when she gets "hangry" (which is why I now always have a snack in my purse for her).

Tomorrow she graduates college. College...! I could not be more proud of her, especially the fact that she went on this journey with a goal, and did it! It wouldn't matter if she graduated this year or next year to me, I would still be just as proud. But...she is truly amazing. Tomorrow she will walk across the stage with honors - PSI CHI and Cum Laude. Because she's awesome.

If you don't know my sister, you are missing out. She is smart, beautiful, and caring...not only that, she is funny, adventurous, and giving. I'd say she is loud and outspoken, but we know those aren't characteristics that were passed down.

Tomorrow I will cry. Tomorrow I will cheer and scream from the crowd. Tomorrow I will remember all the times I didn't want a sister. Tomorrow I will remember all the times why I'm glad I have one. Tomorrow I will be the proudest big sister in the world.

To My Sister, Danielle:
Be proud. 
Be happy. 
Live in the moment. 
Breathe. 
YOU did it! 
I love you. 

Your proud big sister... 
Melissa