When I was born, we lived down by the river. At a few months old, my parents’ dog Night passed away. My sister commented, “Well at least we still have Ashley”. I guess I was a consolation prize at best. Years later, I can remember my hair being long and down my back. I hated having my hair fixed or brushed. I can remember my sister angrily hitting me in the back of my head with the back of the brush because of my refusal to allow her to play with my hair. My mom even bought a white Astro van to have separate seating for us as we could not be near one another without a fight ensuing. If you are sibling then I am sure you can relate. It’s a tough love in the beginning, almost forced by your parents’ choice to have more than one child.

However, as the years roll past, you begin to realize how much you need this person. They are a link to your past and know you better than anyone. Siblings have great inside jokes relating to childhood experiences. We share a great one about Sam’s Cola products and Upper 10 (Sam’s version of Mountain Dew). As I got to high school (my sister had already moved out), I very much enjoyed having my sister do my hair and makeup. I was never any good at it.

Now, as a married adult with children, we have so much more to share. I can tell her anything without judgement and she is able to provide the best advice. She has always been someone I’ve admired and must admit, slightly jealous. She is not afraid to try anything, and when she does, she nails it every time. She is not afraid to stand her ground, and she lights up any room she enters.

Today is her birthday. As I scroll through Facebook, I see something that says “tag someone you are proud of”. I keep scrolling but, in my mind, the first name that comes to mind is hers. I am extremely proud of her- for all that she does with her job, how she’s raising 4 strong and independent children, and how she can succeed in anything.

I don’t think I tell her enough but I love her. I love her more with each passing year. I’m glad she’s on my team, I’m glad she is mine. Happy Birthday Andi!

Ruth 1:16–17, “Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.