My sister just returned today from what she calls the most incredible experience of her life. She lived at our great-grandfather’s orphanage in Acapulco for the last five weeks, and I must admit, I lived vicariously through her hilarious and heart-wrenching email updates.

Through her weekly letters, Kelsey relayed stories of consuming countless bowls of hot dog soup and sitting through episodes of Sponge Roberto Square Pantalones. But more impressively, at age 18—the age when my friends and I were hiding empty beer cans in vases and cereal boxes—she became a caregiver, mentor and role model to these children, and I couldn’t possibly be more proud of her. Kelsey, you are endlessly amazing, and I can’t wait to see you in two weeks! I love you!