SISTERS!

I was so excited when we found out that we were having a little girl, our Elsie. The pressure of getting Grace a sister was off. Having 4 sisters, I've maintained that every girl needs a sister, although Brian argues the opposite. Having 5 brothers, he insists that every boy needs a brother, more than a girl needing a sister. Oh, not so, my love. If Tyler gets a brother, I'll be happy, but I'd probably have to keep having kids until I got my girl a sister. They'll have the years of fighting over each other's clothes (hopefully never over boys, which did happen at my house growing up), but eventually, I hope they will end up being the best of friends. What a joy it is to have a sister.

And so, my ode to my sisters:

A Bag Full of M&M's:

My best of friends whenever I'm in need

Always there for my aching heart to feed.

Or just a laugh to give me a little smile

Even if we're separated by way too many a mile.

We've mastered two-way calling and learned five-way is the best

'Cuz when it's just a few of us we always miss the rest.

Sharing our daily adventures, not always full of cheer

Whatever is the story, I've got an attentive ear.

Mandy is my neighbor, shopping buddy and babysitter too

My adult conversation on our outings to the zoo.

A perfect example of selfless living true

Without my oldest sister I'd not know what to do.

Megan is my daily wake-up call on the telephone

My teacher of canning and quilting, before to me unknown.

Never an idle moment, always a busy little bee

Learning to do new things, she's ever inspired me.

Melanie's a beauty, filled with style, poise and grace

Helping me with fashion and how to put makeup on my face.

One who's ever faithful, her standards she'll never compromise

Showing me how to continue growing, although I'll never reach her size.

Mallorie, or Mookie, as she is so well known

A favorite aunt to my kids, a smile she's always shown.

She teaches me to love without judging, each and everyone

And she's always ready to take the lead in having fun!

My sisters are amazing, the best they truly are

I love them each so dearly, no matter near or far.

Thank you for teaching me - and for being my friend

Sealed for all eternity, we'll be together to the end!

Grace and Elsie, I hope you learn to love and appreciate each other. Sisters are the best, and you are so blessed to have each other.

Mandy, Megan, Misty, Mallorie, Melanie