Finding your perfect soulmate of a friend is one of life’s many challenges; however, I was lucky enough to be born into mine with my sister and could not have asked for a better human being. As the school year begins to wrap up, it dawns on me that Lauren will be moving on to the next big chapter of her life, college. 

Dear Lauren Alida, 

You never cease to amaze me; you are one of the most unique humans I have ever met. Ever since we were young, I have been so proud to be your little sister. I know you probably weren’t the most ecstatic when you found out on March 12, 2006, that I would be taking over half of your room; however, we made it through that 14-year period of our lives together. 

The next big chapter in our life together was track. If we weren’t as close as we could’ve been before, we sure are now because of track. You will never not find me glued to your side at a meet, otherwise, you know I’d be lost. Like the other day when I was getting ready to nap and you reminded me our race was soon to get a second call. You out of anyone know how anxious track makes me; however, you are the one that can calm me down by always saying the right thing. 

I cannot believe in less than four months you will be in college. I will miss being able to go downstairs to hang out with you when I am bored and the “sleepover?” text messages we send each other late at night. I have to admit, you picking Augie is one of the best decisions you could have made. Although you won’t only be a couple steps away, Augie is close enough that it gives me the ability to continue to bug you, which I know you will love. 

Thank you for all you do for me. I aspire to be as talented a woman as you are someday. No matter where this next part of your life takes you, I will always be here for you. I am thrilled to see the places you’ll go in life. I love you to the moon and back.

Love, Ellen