This day last year, we celebrated your special day with close friends over mango white claws and sriracha mac and cheese. You wore one of my favorite button-up of your's with the colorful flowers paired with your classic rolled up pants. I demanded to take your photo to document your newly 22-year-old self (and you happily obliged, as always). I'd press the shutter as fast as I could as we made each other laugh with the help of friends to bring out your smile—you had the best smile. While we talked about how you won a bakeoff during your summer in DC, someone came by, asking for change so they could buy something to eat on their birthday. Without hesitation, you took out all of the change in your wallet for them and offered it to them saying, "It's my birthday too! Happy birthday!" I'll always remember how you shared your love with that person. I think about you every day. Today, I walked up to Twin Peaks to celebrate your day again. The N Judah roamed up and down the disappearing hills, and I passed by blooming yellow flowers on Warren Drive. A few minutes later, bicyclists were zipping by me, and for a moment, I caught a glimpse of Sutro Tower, like the view outside of your city apartment. At one point, I could barely walk up the steepest hill right before the peak, and I thought about how if you, the fastest walker I knew, were with me, you'd match my glacial pace and tell me to take my time. I feel your love every day, and I am beyond grateful for the moments we shared together. I wish we had more; I wish others got the chance to feel your love, and you could feel their's. I'll love you forever.. I miss you. Happy 23rd birthday, Courtney.

— Karen Ni