My big sister

Happy Birthday Teresa!

Growing up in a family with 8 children being spoiled, in the traditional sense, is rarely heard of. I realize now how spoiled I really was. I always had a friend to play with even if my friends privilege was revoked (which hardly ever happened. Yes, I'm an angel.). I was hugged and loved and reminded how wonderful I am. My parents never missed an opportunity to remind us how much we meant to them. However with 8 children, a demanding job, all our activities, church callings and for mom there was also the babysitting kids, sometimes personal attention was extremely limited.

This is where Teresa stepped in. Teresa, for those who don't know, is my oldest sister. Heavenly Father knew what he was doing when he sent her first. She forged the way for the rest of us. How grateful I am to her for being the "first". She broke mom and dad in on all the hard stuff like bikes, sleepovers, being the first teen, makeup, sports, driving, dating and college. She was blest with an ability to lead which she developed to an art. Teresa introduced barbies, music and dance, boys and the world of fashion into our home. To list her talents would take forever so here is a sampling; she dances, incredibly intelligent, gardens, teaches, travels, wins baking contests, designs, writes, expert hostess, wonderful mother and makes great smoothies.
An invitation to one of her garden tea parties is a great privilege.



So many of the major changes in my life are marked by her influence. Like when I dented the van and had to spend all my money for my senior year's school clothes on fixing the van. She sent me clothes while she was on her mission because she knew how I was feeling. Then when it was time for me to leave for college she was my first roommate. She helped me register for classes and find a place to live. She helped me plan and arrange my wedding.(Did I mention she was pregnant at the time.) Teresa has been there for births of babies, blessings, baptisms, babysitting, birthdays, accidents and illnesses. She is a wonderful bargain shopper. Which with 6 boys is the only way we can shop. She is always thinking of how she can help others. Most recently she has been there to take care of our mom and I know mom will agree, she has done a marvelous job.

Teresa, you give so much and expect so little. You make the world a better place just by being in it. You see its beauty and share your findings. You make me want to be a better person. Today on your birthday I wanted to celebrate your birth. I know I am not the only one, though you make me feel most important(another Teresa specialty), but I am privileged to be in your life and you in mine. You have style, grace and beauty which have only improved with each year. I love you.