Role Reversal

I grew up the oldest sister of nine. With this role comes great responsibilities. You are mom's right-hand girl, and "little mother". You learn early to change diapers, comfort a baby and help get people dressed. You get to boss little people around and "encourage" them to do that list of Saturday chores you have taken upon yourself to divide evenly, type up and print with little boxes to check when completed, etc. Although they sometimes use your makeup like fingerpaint, you get to be adored by the young ones and everything you do is brilliant and funny - even bad impressions of Cruella deVille or silly theatrical productions. They sometimes crowd your space and cramp your style, but you love them a whole lot.


Then something happens.

You grow up and realize that these younger siblings are watching you, copying you, and following your example. You work harder to made right choices because you know that chances are, they'll follow your lead. More than wanting them to be like you, you want them to be happy. You go to church (even when you are away at college and no one is watching), you serve in callings, you get a job, you work hard, you pay for school, you study hard, you earn a degree, marry in the temple and work hard to teach your own children to "walk in the light". You try not to rule your own kids with the bossy big-sister "iron fist". Old habits die hard.

This past week my younger siblings put their jobs on hold and boarded a plane, with kids in tow, and came out to help me while Josh was on a business trip for the week. Catherine (six months pregnant) brought her two young boys, who were so much fun, so polite and such great playmates for my kids. We had lots of trains chugging around!

Tim left his job and took "vacation" to bring his enthusiasm and knowledge of how to conduct a full-blown action-figure battle. I have fond memories of seeing Tim and James battle J.I. Joes in the same way. It was so fun seeing all the kids follow Tim around like the Pied Piper.

"What are you drawing, Tim?"

They both helped me cook, clean, vacuum, care for my kids and take them on outings so I could have a rest. It really was so humbling to see these "little" kids taking care of their big sister in such a selfless way, always asking, "What else can I do?".


When the kids were in bed or playing, we got to have some great conversations, catching up and talking about our lives and our hopes and goals for the future. I admire them so much. Cath for her gentle and kind way of mothering, and disciplining in a positive way. She reminds me so much of Mom. Tim for his kind heart and desire to prepare for and work towards an eternal family. The girl he marries will be so, so lucky! I can't wait to meet her! I found myself sitting there listening to them, watching them, wanting to follow their lead and be more like them. It was wonderful.

Movie Parties (watching Tangled)

Arts and Crafts

My son showing an excellent example...

Cath was here with us for Mother's Day.
"Happy Mother's Day"

This was about three seconds before that cake was rejected and sent flying to the ground.
Cath caught it in mid-air. It was awesome.

We had a great time. Thank you, family!