A Birthday Letter

To My Dear Sister,

Today is your birthday. Let me just tell you Happy Birthday! I can't believe where the years have gone. I can't believe where life has taken us. Our story of sisterhood is really something, full of good times and bad.

I remember the early days, even though I wish you didn't. I was not a good big sister, well to be frank, I was a terrible sister. I know it must have been so confusing for you. One day we were playing Barbies together, the best of friends and the next day I was locking you out of the house, screaming at you to run away and never return.

I lost track of you through college and during the first part of my marriage. I was not there for you when you were dealing with the your unexpected pregnancy and in all honesty, I might have made matters worse by my comments and actions. I was so judgmental and harsh, you had every right not to ever speak to me again. I hurt you so badly, I don't know if anything will heal those wounds.

Life went on and so did we. And over time, we changed, we both grew up. I don't know how or when exactly it happened but it did. I believe that the common bond of motherhood brought us together, helped us grow into friends.

Then you did something amazing and you went above and beyond my wildest dreams. You stepped up and became a mother to my son when I was not able. You loved him like your own and made sure that I had time with him every single day while I was in the hospital. That simple act, although it was challenging with two rambunctious 2 years, was the highlight of my day. I used to count the hours until you came.

Then after the babies were born, you did it again. You stepped up to help with out even a second thought. You were there when I needed you most and even when I didn't even know that I needed you. You gave us the best gift, the gift that parents of triplets want most, sleep. You came over in the night and cared for my small babies, once again just as if they were your own. You gave me peace of mind and made it possible for me to cope. I don't know how I will ever repay you or if I even can.

All I can say is Thank You, from the bottom of my heart Thank You.

Life is funny and takes us places that we do not plan. Your life is one big example. It is so not fair that for you, life is always a struggle. You have had to fight for everything you have and them some. I wish for once it would come easy for you. I wish for once, I could bare your burden and you could have the 'perfect' life. No more struggles, no more fights, no more tears.

But alas, I cannot. All I can do is love and support you. Sometimes our relationship feels so one sided. I feel that I can't give back to you all that you have given me. You have done more for me than you will ever know and I feel that I just take and take from you. I hope you know, that I willing do anything for you, anything. I want to be there for you. I am so proud to have you as my sister. I am your biggest fan, your cheerleader, your friend.

I know that right now, life is very stressful for you. But it will get better, I promise. You will get everything that you deserve and more. You will be happy. I will do everything in my power to help you achieve this. Whatever it takes, I am here.

I know that the last thing you have time for right now is to celebrate your Birthday but I want to celebrate! Because with out this day, 26 years ago, I would not have gotten a sister, my very best friend.

I love you more than words are able to express. I hope you have a great day and I will be there with Strawberry Pretzel Salad and Apple Cheesecake.

Love Forever,
Jen