[Everglow.]

Hey

It sounds like Tommy is very lucky to have sisters who care and motivate her as much as you and Julie do. I'm glad she's finding enrichment through books and learning, and I feel like the tutoring will be really positive for her too, especially since she seems to be very well rounded and open to learning already. I'm just wondering what you mean by further guidance? Do you mean in terms of eduation? Careers? Mental or physical health? Life in general?

I think the best thing you can do, especially considering she is new to your world and your lives, is keep the path of communication open for her. The absolute best way to know what a person needs, wants, or could benefit from, is to talk to them. Ask Tommy if there is anything she would like to do/learn, or if she feels she is missing anything or unhappy about anything. I think you're right in saying that you don't want to cram her too much. Afterall, it's a good thing that she is motivated already, and now has access to a whole world of opporunity because she has such genuine and kind family. It's important to let her become who she is, without the pressure of having to do everything someone else wants. And I think you're already giving her that opportunity, which is good.

That being said, as older sisters your guidance will stretch way beyond what tutoring or experiences you can give her. As an older sister myself, I like to think (although my siblings would probably tell me otherwise) that I've helped to guide them as they've grown up just by being their sister. And I know that sounds boastful but what I mean is, my sister now comes to me to proof read her essays, and we're all very well-rounded (for the most part) people who have grown up to be good, kind people. As an older sister it's my hope that by being the first to go through life experiences, like school, and graduating, and getting a job, and moving out, and by not being broken by it, they are less afraid to try things.

What I'm saying is, you're already guiding her whether it's your intention or not. So absolutely ask her what she'd like from you and if there's more you can offer her, but more important than that, just let her see that you're succeeding in surviving life. Let her see that you're doing good and it will guide her to feel confident, happy and content too. Be open to her talking to you about things - which I know you already are. Small things might be just as important in terms of guidance than bigger things.

Hope this helps!