Dear Sophie,

Before I start, I know that  you cannot read, and that you will not understand what will be happening these next few months.  However, this is what I would tell you if I could.

Things are going to be very different in our house soon for one main reason: I will be going to college, and you will be staying at home. This change will be hard for you and me since we have known each other for a long time. You joined our family when I was in kindergarten. Throughout my whole school career, you have been by my side. Whether it was a long night studying, a night I needed someone to cry with, or when I needed a smile, you were there waiting. And while you are a stubborn, lazy cat, you are one of the reasons I love to be home.

But now the time has come for the next chapter in my life. I will be living away from home and meeting new people, and I know you will be having a lot of questions. First off, I am not dead. I am still alive. Second, I have not abandoned you or replaced you. Believe it or not, you are my favorite animal of the feline species, and I have no plans to leave or replace you but there are no cats allowed in my dorm next year. Mom and Dad will obviously want me to come back home and visit, and I will want to come and see you all.

Now, I need to ask a favor of you, and it’s very important: I need you to take care of Mom and Dad. I know they are very happy I will be starting this next chapter, but they will also be empty nesters. I am not sure how they will be when I leave. Please comfort them like you comfort me when I need it.  I think it will help them tremendously. I am entrusting you to keep an eye on them and make sure they are doing alright. This is very important, and I know you will do an amazing job. I will miss you and the folks a great deal when I am gone, but I will call, Skype, text, or find any other way to reach all of you.  I can’t wait for you to visit me at Wartburg on family weekend.

Love always,

Kendall Erenberger

A&E Co-Editor