I have two older sisters. Karie and Kat. Yes, the girls in the family are Karie, Kat, and Katie - names with K's after my mom, Karen. We all learned early to answer to any "K" name, or sometimes even a combination, like Karithy. Even now, I know when my dad calls, I may be called Kathi or Karie, but I know he means Katie.
My sisters are a lot older than I am and growing up, I always thought I was lucky. People often asked me if I wished they were closer to my age. But, in reality, I never have wanted it any other way. I can't remember a time when I didn't look up to them. I can't remember ever wishing for it to be different. I can only remember being completely spoiled, loved, encouraged, taught, and, inspired. They are my girl heroes. They always have been, and they always will be. If I ever have needed somewhere to look for strength, I had my older sisters to follow.
I don't have a current picture of us three. In fact, I only have a handful of pictures with all three of us together. We have all lived and gone and done and that has made it to where we are not near each other very often. But, even with the distance, I have watched and learned from my sisters. They have provided me with amazing examples of how to be a mother and how to be a wife. I see them in me as I go through my day. I think about them as I change a mound of diapers, wrestle with a major meltdown, or listen to a pre-teen tantrum because they did it once too. And because of them, I know I will survive it all - because they did. They did, and they did it well.
So, when someone calls me Karie, or Kat, or even Karithy, I smile and think of the two sisters that I love. I think of the two sisters who I am blessed to have. And I hope, one day, I will be just as strong and fabulous as they are.
If only I could make a quick jaunt to Sprinkles to try this temptation.
