Letter 1

June 28^th

From Alex Tailler; Daly City, California

To Derick Levine; Spencerport, New York

Dear Rick,

How are you? You only moved a month ago, but it's already boring here without you. I guess I got too used to having you around for ten years!

I can't believe that I'll be in ninth grade already. We're finally going to be high-schoolers! I just hope that I can find an environment different from middle-school. Remember Alyson Jacobs from second grade? I ran into her at the library and she's as snotty as ever. I think I might finally have a chance to get away from it all, though! Guess why.

I finally got into Crestmont Academy! I know that I'll have to live away from my family, but it's totally worth it for their design program. I've been waiting for this since grade school! I'm disappointed you won't be able to join me, though. I'm glad that your parents are getting back together, but they certainly aren't making it very convenient for us, are they?

I really hope I'll be able to make some interesting friends. Everyone here has gotten so boring. Maybe I've just become too jaded? It's a little hard to find fun when you and Cassidy are two thousand miles away. In any case, I'm looking forward to the change of scenery. I'll send you my new address when they assign dorm rooms. I'll keep you up to date on all progressions.

How is Cassidy adjusting to the East Coast? I can't imagine her away from our sunny shores; she's not meant for snow or rain or lake effect. I hope her nosebleeds have not gotten any worse with all of the pollution over there. I know it creeps you out when I talk about her now that she's your step-sister, but I've tried to keep it to a minimum.

I hope to hear back from you soon! It really sucks that your dad has some problem with wireless routers, but I won't have a computer at Crestmont, anyway, so snail mail will have to do for us. I hope to tell you more after I receive my schedule!

Your Friend,

Al Tailler