While you "females with sisters" friends may think that having a sister doesn't make you any different than me - I beg to differ. It's been an interesting ride, so let me share.
Early on, I noticed I was different from my "friends with sisters". Especially on the day when they all showed up to school with freshly painted finger nails. Say what? What's that stuff? "Oh, my sister painted them." Well aren't you special!
Yep! But while their sisters were teaching them how to paint their nails, my brothers were teaching me how to deliver a ferocious dodge ball right to the opponent's old bread basket! Now tell me if that isn't a life learned necessity!!!
And the frills! Oh the frills- make up and hairdos! Don't even go there! My God-given sister friends, generally assisted by their mothers and sisters, often sported hair styles and makeup much like Farrah Fawcett's in Charlie's Angels, while me? I showed up looking like Peppermint Patty in Charlie Brown! Oh Mom! We tried, but those fancy hairdos are so over-rated!
I could go on and on with my male dominated life. Basketball was always "jam-it-down your throat" basketball. Football was always "tackle" football, and there was absolutely no such thing as softball. Everything was all about the guys - and I just happened to fit in.
Of course, I've always wanted a sister, and I'm sure my mom did too. There definately were times when I felt a bit helpless and defenseless -especially when the tickle fights and rough housing began! Oh boy! Ever laughed so hard, you could puke? I had two brothers. My mom had four! I can't imagine! Her tussles had to be twice as hard!
However, my mom was no dummy! Some of the best advice she ever gave me was regarding dinner time protocol. "Remember," she said. "When those boys start messing with you or your food at the dinner table, (they loved stealing my food), you DO have a weapon. It's called your fork!" Good one Mom! Priceless! It worked!
Well by now, I know what you're thinking, "At least you didn't have to wear hand-me-downs!" Wanna make a bet?? I had older cousins, and even hand-me-downs were better than undergarments purchased at the local church rummage sale!!! (That's another story!)
So Mom, I know there were times when it felt like you and I were against the world. Or maybe it was more like we were the blind leading the blind. But you know what? I couldn't have asked for a better mother. I think we both turned out pretty darn good, despite those silly boys! I'm so proud to be an only daughter's only daughter, and I'm missing you like crazy, especially during this week of Mother's Day! Until we meet again...
Love ya Mom!
