Dear Erika,

I can’t tell you how excited I am for you and your fiancé Joe and your upcoming nuptials.

Wow, my little sister is getting married. I know all of our family is excited for both of you guys, but I wanted to take the time to write you this letter just to tell you what an amazing person you are and how proud I am of you.

I know as we were growing up we both did not see eye to eye as most sisters should. After all, you were the baby of the family and you came later. Both Francis and I were already teenagers moving on to high school and you were barely a toddler.

I remember how you used to love hanging out with us. You also loved hanging out with our best friend who was more like a sister, Eloisa.   I still recall you wanting to sing with us and be just like us as a kid.

Then there were the years you and I just did not get along and that was hard. However, as I grew older and became a mother, I realized how different it can be and you and I grew closer.

At the same time you have established yourself as a very hard working person and a caring one as well; This is why I am not surprised that you and Joe found each other.

I was so excited and teary when he proposed to you as you were. I know the distance made it hard for us to hang out since we are in North Carolina and you are in Texas. But I am glad we spend more time chatting and talking over the phone.

Sister, I wanted to wish you all the best and I know with God’s blessing and all our family and friends who love you, both you and Joe are going to have the most beautiful and blessed life together.

Just remember to always be patient with one another, love each other, and be there through all the ups and downs that life brings you. I just wanted to say that and know I love you. All of our family does. God bless you both.

Love your sister,

Sylvia