An Ode to My Big Sister

On this day in 1970, my big sister Milaka was born. Isn't she so cute?

Here's Milaka on her second birthday. What beautiful big blue eyes!

I have to confess, as the little sister, I idolized my big sister! She always kept her room so much neater than mine. Her toys were always nicer than mine too. While we're on the subject, have you seen her handwriting? I know she says her handwriting is so perfect because she spends time working on it. Well I'm impressed that she spent the time! It really is perfect!

I played soccer because Milaka did. I started playing the flute because Milaka did. Any guesses as to why I was in the choir in high school? Yep, because Milaka was! There was a time when I was a sophomore in high school that a couple of my friends were the little sisters of Milaka's friends. Thanks for putting up with me Milaka! I know it must have been annoying to have your little sister follow you around everywhere!

Right now, Milaka lives in Oregon, attending chiropractic school. Have I mentioned that my sister is amazing? She often said that science wasn't her best subject, and yet she passed all kinds of science classes to fulfill her dream. She is the mother of three wonderful children, and even as a full-time student, still has time for them. Amazing! She sings in a barbershop choir (and is very good at it!) and fulfills her calling at church. How can she do it? As her very biased little sister, I say that she can do it because she is Milaka, and my big sister can do anything!

Happy Birthday to you Milaka! I know today will be a very busy day for you so maybe you won't have time to read this ode today, but when you do, please enjoy it and know that I mean every word! I love you!