Friends at Last

I love my siblings, each and every one of them.  Although we had our moments growing up, as all siblings do (and most of those moments probably stemmed from the fact that I was bossy and impatient), I can say without hesitation that there is not one of my siblings that I don't consider a dear friend. My life would be so sad without my siblings. The hardest thing about being in the military is being apart from family.

I don't remember life before Richard. All my earliest memories involve him in some aspect. He is passionate about family time and doing things together. He wants everyone to be included. We served missions at the same time. He was the only one I got to overlap with in school. He's smart and kind and patient. I just love that guy.

Whenever I think of Matthew, I think of him smiling. He is easy-going; I don't know of any person that Matt doesn't get along with. He is supportive of each member of the family. Matt is the embodiment of what a true friend is: loyal, trustworthy, and focused on the best in everyone. No matter what is going on, it's always better and more fun when Matt is there.

I love that Stephen and I can share what it's like to be doctors in the military and all the ups and downs that entails. He's got such a creative streak and I am in awe of how good his poetry and prose are (when he has time to write, that is). He did a phenomenal job on Mike's and my wedding announcement, books, and video. I appreciate how willing he is to share his many talents.

Megan is such a great friend and sister. I can do all the fun girl stuff with her, like look at shoes and talk about hairstyles and get advice on cute clothes. Before I got married, I would call her to commiserate over my dating ups and downs. She's a good listener. She has a great sense of humor and always makes me laugh. She is beautiful inside and out and I couldn't imagine a better sister.

Kevin will always be my bud. He and I used to make the family Halloween meals every year. Kevin embodies enthusiasm. He's enthusiastic about education, the Gospel, sight-seeing, and getting out with the family. He's always willing to serve and do things for other members of the family. Of all my siblings, I think he's the most like my mom--an embodiment of selfless service.

Because of the relationships I have with my siblings, I have been anxious for Sophia and Ryan to start bonding as brother and sister. I know they're young and relationships take time, but it broke my heart to see Sophia not enjoying being around Ryan. When we moved to Fayetteville, we decided to put them in the same room together. It was a gamble, because such a move that can either forge or demolish a sibling relationship.

Well, my heart has been overflowing with gratitude and happiness over the last few weeks, because these photos show what has been occurring more and more frequently in our home:

I have loved seeing these sweet little moments between them. It has become one of my favorite things about being a parent. I hope that friendship will continue to grow and deepen as they get older.