Yesterday my step sister died.  It was so shocking and unexpected that just writing those words don’t feel real.  Over this past year, Andrea became more than just a step sister to me.  She was my sister.  She asked me to be a bridesmaid in her wedding in August and I (admittedly hesitantly) replied yes.  She wanted to grow our relationship and you really can’t ever say no to that.  Our parents had gotten married when we were both young and we were far enough in age that we couldn’t really relate.  Fast forward 10+ years and we finally started to love each other in that sisterly way.  Not that “I have to love you because you’re family” way but a true bond.  Her wedding wasn’t just a wedding but a new beginning for Andrea that was stopped too short.  She and her husband didn’t even get to go on their true honeymoon.  Words just can’t explain the numbness that has settled over our family.  I’m just glad that when she had to go, she was at the happiest point in her life.  That’s all you can really ask for.  I love you, Andrea.