Anna-Banana

My little younger sister turned 31 today!
I remember my mom going to the hospital in the middle of the night.
I remember my grandma waking me up to tell me I had a new baby sister.
I remember announcing to all of my 3rd grade that "my mom had a baby last night".
I remember dressing her up and curling her hair and taking pictures of her.
I remember changing her diaper and sometimes (accidently) sticking her with the pins (cloth diapers).
I remember babysitting her and playing with her and her toys.
I remember that that her love of cats started very early.
I remember her shoving two kittens into my Peanuts tin lunch box.
I remember her practicing piano.
I remember how long her legs where and that she always had about 15 bruises on each shin...not much as changed!

I don't remember her middle school years. (I was in college)

I remember her being in our wedding and she was looking so incredibly young!
I remember her being the best auntie to CJ, even though she was going through so much in college at the time.
I remember our party days. 
I remember our non-party days.

I remember more than she thinks I do. 

I am so grateful for her, in so many ways. She is not just my younger sister, she is one of  my best friends.  She is also a great auntie to my boys and my husband thinks she is pretty cool too! 

I like how Anna and I can talk in "movies".  Between the two of us, we can probably quote and name over 100 movies.  We also can speak Spanish together...especially whilst in Mexico!  Yes, traveling dos veces to Mexico with my sister has been some of the most fun times.  Playing Canasta and drinking Fresca until the wee hours of the night may only be topped by shopping and a bit more shopping. 

Did I mention that the birth of my second child may have required drugs if it were not for my sister?  Her cold and very comforting hands and soothing voice made it all go rather well.  She told me he needed to be born before 9:00 and well, let's just say that what she wants, she gets. 

Did I mention that she is a fabulous coach?  She has guided me, supported me and helped me through some very tough weight-lose issues this past year. 

What else? 

She is (so I hear) the most fabulous tennis coach, volleyball coach, volleyball teammate...and well, let's just say that she if fairly athletic!  Which is AMAZING because a certain doctor (who shall not be named) told our family that she would most likely not play sports due to a twisted tibia while in utero.  Dumbass doctor. 

She also has great style.
Like in her decor around her house...super fabulous! 
Like in her dishware...Fiesta of course and super fabulous!
Like in her clothing...all Nike of course (remember she is super athletic!) 

So, here is to my sister...who has HAD TO HAVE Cherry Chip cake on her birthday for the past 31 years running!  Can you say spoiled?  Nope...just totally well loved!

Love you Anna-Banana!  Happy Birthday!