To Lucy's big sister

Lauren,

I just wanted to let you know how much I love you and how proud I am of you.  From everything that Mom tells me, you have been a HUGE part of why Lucy's transition into our family has been so smooth.  I have to be honest with you - there have been times the past couple of years that Mom and I have had a few concerns about how you might respond to being "replaced" as the oldest child.  And while I'm sure you probably thought about that, too, you've been Lucy's biggest cheerleader the whole time.  I was especially impressed with all your hard work learning Chinese before you left for China so that you could help Lucy with the transition.  The grace and poise and maturity you've shown, prior to the trip but especially while in China with Lucy, has blown me away.  I'm so proud of you that I could pop!  I know you're aware that there are still going to be bumps in the road ahead.  Lucy will have some rough days, you'll have some rough ones, and each member of our family will, too.  But I'm confident that God will use you, as He already has, to show His grace and love to Lucy.  She could not have a better "big sister."  ;)

I love you very much,
Dad