Girl, you have always been one of the brightest sparkles in my eye. I'll never forget when I found out your mom was pregnant with you. I was so excited because I knew you'd be like a little sister to me.
I was 14 when you were born and have loved you every moment for the past 17 years.
When you were little little, I remember just reading to you, playing hide and seek, taking naps with you and playing the 'laugh out loud until we annoy the whole house' game!
You were the first one to teach me that I could really love beyond myself.
When you moved away with your growing family, you grew up so fast. I loved our phone chats and I'll never forget the conversation your mom and I were having when you were suppose to be heading to bed. Your mom asked if I wanted 'p-o-p-c-o-r-n' to which you came running down the hallway and very matter of factly said "I would like some p-o-p-c-o-r-n!" Your mom spelled it out so you wouldn't know what we were talking about but even at the age of 2 you knew!
You are so intelligent. I'm so proud of your academics and all of your accomplishments through the years, but even more so of the way you choose to live your life.
Your always so positive. You serve other people joyfully. You are always so kind; especially when it comes to entertaining your little cousins who look up to you so much.
I know we don't get to see each other very often. It hurts my heart that we are so far away since we left SD, but I know our bond will only get stronger the older you get. You have become a beautiful, amazing young woman. I love you like a daughter. Like a sister. Like a friend.
Tomorrow, when you face your challengers, I want you to let go of every past game. Let go of every win and every loss. Play with all your heart and all your guts and sweat. You can do all things through Christ.
Go Scottie's!!! Know we are cheering our lungs out from 750 miles away!
CAN YOU HEAR US?!?!!!!
LOVE YOU!!!!
XO
Auntie Jari
Awwwww.......
ReplyDeleteMade me cry first thing this morning, then I got to see the stars and watch a beautiful sunrise. It's going to be a great day. I can feel it. Go Scotties!
We have the best family! Love you and can't to see all of you in a short couple weeks.
Jackie
Love this, Jari! My aunt and I are about eight years apart. We always say we're more like sisters than aunt and niece!
ReplyDeleteShe was a special gift the day she was born and always will be. Love you all!!
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