I can't believe Carlee is 15. And in high school. My sister's kids are the closest thing I have to my own children, and it's really been something to watch them grow and develop into their own selves. I've loved all the stages...... the infant years, when she was a toddler, the first time she said my name (su-si). My sister and I would say, "No, Aunt Suzi"with the emphasis on the aunt. So, that's what Carlee started saying, "Aunt Su-si". Putting together ALL the toys at Christmas, especially anything to do with Barbies. Reading tons of books, going to soccer games, admiring her schoolwork, chatting about things, swimming together, when she played with my hair (loved it!), hanging out at my wedding reception (I think Carlee and I were together more than I was with the groom.....).

Now she's a sophomore. She is passionate and smart and beautiful. She has a wicked sense of humor and can drop one-liners. I call her just to chat on the phone about nothing. We talk about music, school, friends, boys. She's given me advice about life and it's pretty good, I must say! Soon we'll go to our first concert together - fun. I've been looking forward to the relationship we'll have as adults, but I'm loving this age now. Can't wait to see what she does in her life! No doubt, it will be awesome. I love you, Carlee.

PS - I have the best nephew too, but he deserves his own post!