Sisters Are Forever

Every time Christy and I got in a fight when we were growing up, my mom would say, "Remember girls, sisters are forever!"  It was a phrase she picked up from a mug her sister had sent her that said, "Sisters are Forever!  I'm so Glad You're Mine!" Every time she said it, Christy and I would roll our eyes.

The phrase literally made me cringe.  Part of that was probably due to the timing of the phrase and the sing-song way my mom said it.  I only remember her saying it when I was really angry at Christy. It got to the point when we would say it to each other when it suited our needs.  I'd whip it out when I wanted to borrow something or make her do something I didn't want to do.  "Christy, can I borrow your black penny loafers today?  Remember, sisters are forever!"

The years rolled by and life went on, and Christy and I left for separate colleges.  By the time we left for college, we were already friends.  The college years taught us how to be friends who didn't live together in the same small room.  We learned to treasure our weekends together, and we talked on the phone a lot.  After grad school, I got married and had kids. I moved around the country.  Christy grew up, began her career, moved into a two flat, and adopted a Greyhound. Friends and lovers came into our lives and left, but one thing remained: my friendship with Christy.

Christy has been one of the few constants in my life.  She has seen me at my very best, and she has helped put me back together when I was at my worst.  She has traveled all over the country to cheer me on during bike races and triathlons. She has supported every cockamamie idea I have ever had (and there have been many).  She rocked each of my babies to sleep.  She nursed me back to health after foot surgeries. There have been many times when she has understood me better than I understood myself.  Christy is my favorite sounding board and the person I go to when I need a reality check. She makes me feel funny.  She makes me feel wise.  She believes in me.

I feel like I am the best version of myself when we are together.

Christy, I can't imagine my life without you.  I am so, so blessed to have you as my sister and my friend.

Happy Birthday, favorite lady.  I hope the year ahead is magical in every way.  I hope it's filled with love and laughter and all kinds of good memories.

Sisters are forever, and I'm so glad you're mine!

I love you big bunches,

XO,
Vicki

PS When Maddie was born I was beyond thrilled because I knew I gave my girls the best gift in the whole, wide world:  a sister.