Being a Big Sis

There is something very incredible about being the oldest in the family. Although I was/am considered the "example" or "trail blazer", I have found that throughout my entire life I have looked to my siblings for example. I know without a doubt they were meant to be my siblings. It wasn't coincidence that JD, Addie and Brigham were mine. 

This weekend we celebrated JD's decision to serve a mission for our church. As he gave his talk, I looked at him and was amazed at the words he spoke and the thoughts that were being articulated. He spoke on the love of Christ and how he wanted to carry on the cause. He has the strongest desire to bring others to the gospel through Christlike love... and that is exactly how Christ intended it to be. It was a tender moment for me to realize that the brother that I learned with, fought with, played with, cried with, laughed with and celebrated with was so grown up. JD has overcome a lot in his life and always came out on top because of his faith, so it didn't surprise me to hear the words he spoke and his strong testimony resounding through the chapel. I was simply amazed. 

I got to watch Addie play basketball the night before JD gave his talk. She is so athletic and strong and healthy. As I watched her play, I was so proud to be her sister/look alike. She is an athlete. During the JV game, a friend on her team split her eyebrow open and the first one to rush to her aid was my little Addie. She walked her friend off the court and I just watched astounded. Addie is one of the most caring and considerate girls I know. 

Brigham was delightful this weekend. I watched him as he played with his younger cousins. They all look to him for friendship and leadership and love. I was eating at JD's dinner after church and three little kids (a lot younger than Brig) came up to me to ask where Brigham was, because they wanted to hang out with him. It amazes me how Brigham is such a good friend at such a young age.

I am so lucky to have the siblings I do. They teach me what is important daily. I am so proud to be their big sis. So as my family embarks on this new stage of life, JD's Mission, it is great to know that through all the trials we may face we have each other.