Yesterday, May 1st was my sister Paula's birthday. The unique thing about Paula and I is that we are only 11 months apart. She was born on May 1st - I was born the next April. My mom always said that it would have been easier to have had twins. Growing up I was always excited for my birthday because then for 2 weeks Paula and I would be twins. My mom's story is that she never could get me to understand when I was small that Paula really was older than I - especially during those two weeks that we were the "same age". I remember one time when we were in grade school and living in Reno. I had just had my birthday so technically I was the same age as Paula. Someone at church one Sunday asked us if we were twins - I jumped right in and said yes, Paula said no! However, we were dressed pretty much the same and looked alike so I just ignored her answer and went on believing that twins we were. Anyway, growing up it was always so fun having a sister so close in age. She was my best friend and I'm afraid I probably relied on her a bit too much. She was much more outgoing than I was and her friends were so cool. I love her that she always let me hang out with her. I never do remember a time when she didn't include me in what she was doing. As we grew and my understanding grew, I realized that we weren't twins but it was always so fun to be the same age for 2 weeks.
I could go on all day about Paula. I realize now that we are adults that she has always been my biggest cheerleader. If ever I'm feeling not so good about myself I only have to call her and talk for a few minutes and she reminds me how wonderful I am and how much she loves me. I called her last night for her birthday. It has become a tradition with us that for our birthdays we have a really long conversation - It is usually the only time of the year that we talk for an hour or more. Last night was the night and it was wonderful because she is wonderful and she inspires me to do better and be better. Our greatest dream is to live only a block away from each other. (In fact of my sisters and I have decided to live next door to each other in Heaven. One of them lives in Michigan, three in Utah, one in Idaho and one in Arizona.) There are so many things we want to do together that just isn't possible from so far away!
Anyway, Paula is an amazing lady - she started back to school when her youngest daughter started school. She started just taking one class at a time. It has taken her a really long time but I admire her perserverance. Her youngest is now finishing up her freshman year in college. She just has some studying left and then her CPA test and she will be finished. She has raised a great family, been through a huge trial when her husband got cancer (he's good now), has sent her son to Iraq twice, she hasn't gained a pound in 30+ years and can fall asleep standing on her feet.
Her cute family
Her new daughter-in-law (a year ago)
So today, as I reminise about my sister I am so grateful that she is my sister but more importantly that she is my friend and that she always cheers me on no matter what it is I'm doing.
Thanks Paula! I love you!
Paula and I in Arizona
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Nick and Brent said...
Wow, that was really sweet! Paula is so positive and caring, we have totally loved living here close to them. She takes care of us the way you took care of Brent in college. So all those wonderful traits must run in the family! :) Your parents did a good job raising you guys, because you are all very loving and caring. I feel blessed to be a part of this family!
May 4, 2008 at 5:33 PM