Soccer Tournament
Like older cousins often are, I was Alexis’s babysitter. I have a million stories with lying on my waterbed and watching Barney or Disney movies on repeat. One time after our sleepover she had to go to my indoor soccer tournament with me. So we loaded up on Gatorade and snacks at the store and off we went to soccer. She sat on bench snacking and being silly while I played and at half time she was out on the field shooting. I don’t know why that memory always stands out to me - maybe because it was a great day and we laughed the whole time. Maybe it was because I can look back at her as a little kid and see the kind, generous, and funny woman she would turn in to. She started her life as this shining star, the baby we were all so excited to meet, and she left the world a better place because of all she did. A fierce friend and protector of animals, I am a better person because of all she taught me.
