Today is my little sister’s birthday. I was four when she was born, and  the week my mom went to the hospital to have her, we had two guys from the “Up with People” tour staying at our house for the night. My Granny Helen was there, and she made pancakes for us. (cultural reference: “Up With People” is a performing arts and community service group that tours spreading show choir joy and messages of inspiration to rural America and beyond. Frankly, this post would be so much more meaningful if I had grown up and joined “Up With People” for a season to pay homage to my sis. Alas. Missed opportunity.)

They asked me all about being a big sister, but I don’t think I said much. I was very quiet and shy as a child, but I remember grinning at them. I knew that becoming a big sister was a big deal, and maybe in my mind I imagined that “Up With People” had come heralding my sister’s birth.

And why not? When God brings people into our lives who will breathe lifelong joy into us, I think it’s quite possibly the best reason to break out into a song and dance number.

Happy birthday, Becky, can I tell you how happy this picture makes me? (Disregard for a moment my signature bowl bangs, and look at our beautiful mom! Look how much you look like your sweet Baby Ryan!) Love you girl.

*Aunt Nancy, correct me if I’m wrong, but I think you are the one who took this picture (as well as so many more over the years– I think this is part of the series with me holding Becky) Love you!