For Sophia

           As we begin the thought of adding to our family I need to give you some advice. You will soon be a big sister. You may be a sister to Ana for a short time or maybe you will be a sister to her forever but soon your life will change and let me assure you with 100% certainty a sister is the best thing that could happen to any person.

My advice would be better given as the “little” sister since I think I played that role to your mother better than I played “big” sister to Auntie Tera. What I can tell you though is how I felt being loved and protected by your Mother and all things Ana will feel as your little sister, since you and your mother are most certainly cut from the very same clothe.

            I know it will be annoying to have to bring Ana along on your play dates but it is only because she idolizes you. If she tells your Spanish friends Mother she wants some “aqua” because she learned the Spanish word for water on Sesame Street it will only be because she wants to impress you (and your friend’s family). When you act out lip syncing in the backyard and Ana is the back up singer, let her add dance moves. It is bad enough she will never get lead vocals….When she is scared to be alone on her playground take time to go over and tell her it will be OK… walk her to her class if she thinks she might get lost and have some patience for her when she scared to try new things without your encouragement. Remember that she too will carry the burden… like when teachers roll their eyes when they hear she is YOUR sister and when kids assume she will act and be just like you, being forced to live in your shadow.

         Being a sister and having a sister will bring you the most frustrating yet happy and memorable experiences of your life. Cherish every moment weather Ana is your sister just for now or is your sister forever…. Treasure it, because there is nothing in this world like it…..