Ode to my sister

My sister is one of the best people I know. She was born as the middle child, but she never seemed to have the disposition of a middle child. M was the peace-keeper in the family. I like to think the title remains (even though she can be just as moody as the rest of us! Here's to that maternal bloodline...)
Even though we are the only girls in our family (love this shot from 1980-something?), the four year difference played a toll on our relationship as we were growing up. I don't think it was really until I left for college that she and I were able to really become "friends." I'm sure it was hard for her, watching her older sister run around with friends, boyfriends, responsibilities, jobs, etc. that she couldn't really participate in. And then when I married at 19, it separated our worlds quite drastically for a time.
When she decided to come to BYU after high school, it was wonderful! Not only because I then had an instant babysitter (the best one I have ever had), but I was there for her when our mother couldn't be (living so far away). It was so fun to be a part of her life then --she would let me live vicariously through her (think fun college life!) and I would help her get through those times of crazy roommates, weird boyfriends, and oh, yes. An education. :)

Now, here we are, two old mommies, raising our children (okay, so she'll have child"ren" in August!) and understanding each other better than we ever have before. Besides being mothers, we are wives, college graduates, sisters, friends, and confidants.

I love you, M!