Sister Savvy

Most people know that I have two sisters. I am in the middle, just two years younger than my older sister (Jeri) and ten years older than my little sister (Michelle). That, in and of itself, has created some very interesting dynamics throughout the years.

Admittedly, my older sister and I were never what you would call close growing up. In fact, I used to have to bribe her to play with me. "I'll wash the dishes if you play monopoly with me," I'd plead. She would always up the ante -- knowing how desperate I was -- by insisting I do the dishes AND vacuum, or something similar. I'd fall for it everytime.

In high school, I would try to talk to her in the hallway or parking lot, and she would often ignore me. She says now that it was because all the guys she was interested in were interested in me. Who knows? I just remember the rejection and the thousands of dollars of therapy I've had since then! :0)

I guess it wasn't until Jeri started having kids that our relationship began to evolve into what you hear sisters should be . . . friends, confidants, supporters. I worshipped her boys and spoiled them as much as possible.

As for my little sister, she was the light of our lives while Jeri and I were still home. Due to the tremendous age difference, she basically grew up an only child and "enjoyed" the benefits of that . . . although I know she wouldn't likely refer to them as benefits.

There have been some tumultuous years amongst us all as we've grown up through adulthood, but I can honestly say that I am at the point where I embrace all there is about both my sisters -- the good, the bad, and the ugly. I know we won't always agree, but I pray that the future bonds us closer together, with the realization that family is everything.

Jeri and Michelle, I love you both tremendously and will always be here for you . . . even if the boys are interested in you and not me . . . and even if you get a brand new Mustang and I don't! I'm looking forward to growing older and wiser together as we make an abundance of great memories that we didn't have when we were younger! You both are amazingly beautiful, talented and intelligent women whom I am proud to have in my life. You are my heroes, and I can't wait to see what's around the bend for us!