happy birthday, little sis!

I say this every year, but how I still remember my excitement

over a baby sister when I was six.

And today is her birthday ... happy birthday, Anne!

The journey we're on with our dad (Tuesday's post) has actually revived our

relationship, which we had neglected over the years.

About twice a year, Anne and I meet in Nashville for a couple of days.

Although most of our time is spent with Dad,

we also have time to talk, laugh and catch up.

We share a room with twin beds at our step-sister's house
(a lovely lady, like a sister to us and also named Anne)

and giggle until late at night.

So, even though Dad's decline is extremely hard,

it's given us a reason to be together again as sisters,

and how we cherish our time together.

September 2011, Centennial Park, Nashville

When our mother died 34 years ago, it seems the fabric of our family

began to fray. The four of us were young adults building our lives.

We were talking over the weekend how the mother in a family

seems to be the one to hold it together, relationally.

But it's useless to mourn over those years.

We trust God's hand, and we celebrate our renewed relationship.

Happy birthday, dear Anne. I love you!

December 2011 - Dad's 87th birthday ... we have two brothers, too,
Pat and Mark!