Dear Daddy

   It's been 12 months daddy. I'm a whole 8 years old. I've learned how to spell better and I have better handwriting. And I started going to a new school. How cool is that?! But Josh and I are still friends. I'm obviously taller than him. And I make fun of him lots, but he still is really nice to me.

    Mommy says we are going to get married one day, but that makes me want to puke. Josh isn't even cute. He's short and scrawny and his hair is a boring brown color, that matches his eyes. I'm going to marry someone exciting. He'll be more spontaneous and will have pretty eyes and light colored hair. And he can't be a nerd like Josh. That would be sooo lame.

I'm learning to draw. Mommy says I've been getting better at it every day. But I think she is just lying.

    Mommy says you should be able to answer my letters now that you are done with your secret mission. I couldn't send letters for so long! I really want to see you again. Will you be coming home soon? We really need you here daddy. Mommy is starting to change. She is sleeping even more than before. And she never smiles anymore.

I can't remember what you smell like daddy. Mommy says that your cologne will be the same, but it's not. It doesn't smell like you. I really just need you to hug me. And for you to tell me you love me.

   Your shirt has worn out from me sleeping in it every night. Mommy says it's the same, and won't let me have a new one. I think she just wants all your shirts to herself. She's such a bully sometimes.

                                From: Lilly