In Praise And Celebration

Today is my big sister Ginger's birthday.

(That's her on the right--this photo is of us around 1980.)

Although there is a 10-year age difference between us, we always say we are twins born 10 years apart. We share thoughts, finish each other's sentences and are best friends. A few years ago, she gave me a book for Christmas, titled In Praise And Celebration Of Sisters and I adore it. There is a passage that reminds me of us, and of the bond we share. I thought I would share it today, in honor of her birthday:

"The bond between us was not made from flowers and loving sentiments - but sitting on each other's heads, borrowing each other's things, arguing in whispers in the early hours. From secrets, silly and serious, that had to be kept from Mum. From last-minute coaching for examinations - resentful and desperate. From shoutings and tears. From gigglings and raucous laughter. From plottings and from dire and dreadful threats and warnings.
We are grown now, established - but still I hear your voice in memory.
'Oh, don't be so ridiculous!'
'Don't be so wimpish. Stand up for yourself!'
'Think.'
'Sleep on it.'
'Cheer up, old love. Be brave, I'm right behind you.'
And you are. Always."
--Pam Brown



Happy, Happy Birthday to the most amazing sister. Our bond is forever, of love and devotion and protection. You are mine and I am yours. I love you!

The Celebration Continues...

"Our wedding was many years ago. The celebration continues to this day." -- Gene Perret

What a great quote. And so perfect for this special day in particular--my Mama and Daddy's 46th Wedding Anniversary!

They are such a wonderful example of timeless love, devotion and the true meaning of happily ever after. Their love knows no bounds, and it is the canvas on which our family is painted. They have taught my sister, brother and me the meaning of commitment, of "for better or for worse".



Today, I honor them and am so grateful for all they have given me and my siblings. Mama and Daddy, I love you both so much and wish you many, many more years of happiness. Thank you for all you have given our family.



And I wanted to include this precious song because when I hear it, I think of them, and I think of my own marriage, which they laid the foundation for by setting the example they did. I think of strong marriages and true love. I think of forever.



Happy Anniversary to two amazing people!! I love you both so much.