Sibling love

I decided this past weekend that if I ever have a child, I will without a doubt have two. I have a few friends who have one little one--and swear, that is it. I get it. Children are expensive. They are a handful. Balancing work, a little one and a relationship I'm sure is one of life's biggest challenges. However, to all you parents with one toddler in tow, giving them a sibling is the greatest gift you can give. Here is why...

This past week my dad had open heart surgery. I made the 11-hour trek home, and my sister flew in from Denver. We arrived to face my parent's five crazy dogs, a frail and ill mother {she had just broken her hip and shoulder a few weeks prior and has a slew of other health issues}, and a worried but brave dad.

As we learned about how he'd be put on bypass, that he could wake up during surgery, and that the procedure all-in-all was a risky one, the reality of the situation settled in. As we waited during the almost 5-hour surgery, we kept each other occupied. She lent me her headphones, we texted each other across the waiting room about the weird people sitting near us, and both giggled at my mom snoring on the couch.

When we got the good news, we shared a smile and a giant sigh. She was also sure to make fun of me for mistaking a toilet for a stool in his room in ICU and taking a seat on it when I felt faint after seeing my dad for the first time. {Thanks, Sis!}

Back in Arkansas, and my sister back in Denver, we've shared daily texts and phone calls about our dad. As he's back in the hospital today due to another possible health issue, both filled with worry, and a bit of anger due to other family issues, we bitch up a storm, and then convince each other it'll be okay.

She has been my partner in crime since she was old enough to walk. As an adult, she's becoming my partner in life. She understands me in a way no one else can and I couldn't face life with as much confidence as I do without her.

To anyone with a sibling, cherish them. When the reality of your parents health or other issues begins to set it, you will need them. And you will be so grateful that you can face it together.