Do you remember?

Hey Darcie,

I remember, as a little girl, taking long trips to here and there. Matt and Josh would be wedged into the back seat and we would be in the middle seat. We had a sleeping system that they envied. Because we got along so well, we could sleep on top of each other with ease and comfort. While they strained their necks trying to get comfortable, I was nestled into the nook you had created with your legs. We would sleep without interuption, which doesn't take much when Sibell blood is in your veins. I remember thinking how awesome it was to sleep like that. That we could get along and be so comfortable with each other. I was sure Matt and Josh envied our relationship, because I couldn't think of anyone who wouldn't.

I remember sneaking into your room, far past my bedtime. I didn't care if Mom and Dad caught me, because you would lure me in with the promise of your junk if I helped you clean. I fell for it every time, often walking out with clothing that was at least 4 sizes to big and odds and ends that I didn't have a place for. I wanted to keep them, because they were yours. And I would have done just about anything to be like you. I know now how I ridiculous I looked in one particular shirt you had given me. It was tie dyed with a frog in the middle. I thought it was awesome, and the level of awesomeness was perpetuated because it had once been yours. I wore that shirt as often as I could.

I remember taking your things. Always the little clepto, I collected things of yours you might now have been ready to let go of. Once again, I was trying to be you. I didn't mean any harm, I really didn't. And I certainly didn't mean to frustrate you. I was just so fascinated by your teenage self and everything associated with it. (to be fair, I had nothing to do with that piece of jewelry that went through the wash).

I have a lot of beautiful memories of us. I can't really recall fighting with you a whole lot, although I'm sure we shared a few arguments. I just remember being so proud of having a big sister. I never lacked having a role mode growing up. I always had your or mom to look to and know what was right and good. I didn't have to feel insecure in my own skin, because you made sure I knew what it felt like to be someone important.

I think I value you as my sister a lot more now than I ever could have then. I think its because over the years you have stepped back as my older sister and became my best friend. I can't imagine anyone else standing along side me as my maid of honor.

I love you.

Love, Jack

Pennies for Patients

The other day, Austin carefully picked up a penny from the floor and examined it equally carefully. His eyes lit up as he exclaimed, "It's my lucky day!" (this is his catch phrase whenever he finds any denomination of money).

I suggested he run upstairs and tuck it safely into his piggy bank, but he slowly shook his head and examined it again before looking up at me, "I'm going to give it to pennies for patients. And Jack, if it's ok, I think I'll get my other monies out of my piggy bank too."

I'll openly admit that I had forgotten about the pennies for patients presentation we had seen at Austin's school the Friday before. They had put a plug in after Austin's class sang a Valentine's Day song for the school assembly (it was adorable, of course). After the pennies for patients presentation, a teacher suggested to not only ask parents for money, but for the students to consider contributing some of theirs as well. Groans erupted and looks of horror spread across the older children's faces.  They were all on board until their money was brought into the mix... now, they weren't so sure.

I knew what they were feeling. I grew up hoarding my halloween candy from my parents and siblings, constantly convinced that my piggy bank plump full of pennies was at risk, and fairly keen on keeping my toys my toys.

I'm ashamed to admit that I'm still that way with a lot of things, although they are a bit more mature. Money. Friends. The boys' good clothes.

Austin's unwavering kindness and generosity definitely put somethings into perspective. I've rarely seen those selfish traits I have enforced in myself over the years in Austin or his brothers. They share toys without question and play games without exclusion. They give without thinking.

I think I have a lot to learn from these boys. I don't know how I was lucky enough to become a part of their lives, but I'm thankful for it everyday and every time I watch them be kind and considerate human beings.