My sister, Crestina, is 3 1/2 years younger than me.  And although we’re quite different in just about every aspect – she, a bubbly extrovert, I, an analytic introvert; she, a die-hard Titans fan, I, a die-hard Cowboys fan – we have a bond that is impenetrable and infinite.  To really know each of us is to wonder how we’re even related, but ever since she was born, we have been inseparable.

We can blame our younger brother for our chosen term of endearment for each other – “Toot”.  There’s a story there, but suffice it today that it stuck and we can’t really help but call each other “Toot”.  If we happen to use our given names, it pretty much means we’re being very serious or frustrated with each other.

And oh man, can we get frustrated with each other.  I can recall fights when were were kids where we were throwing things at each other across the hallway from our bedrooms.  We’ve definitely had our ups and downs.  We’ve been through a lot together.  We’ve had more than our share of bad times, but we’ve had more than our share of good times too.

I cannot begin to express my love and admiration for My Toot.  She perseveres through life with an uncompromising determination.  She graduated college Summa Cum Laude.  She forged a successful career in broadcast journalism.  And she lovingly raises three little girls (soon to be four) with an unmatched enthusiasm.  Her love of laughter and life is infectious.  Throughout our lives, she has been my friend, my rock, my responsibility, my voice of reason, my connection to my past, and the brightness in my future.  I sincerely would not be who I am without her.

I love you, Toot.  Always.  And forever.

My Little Princesses are the sweetest blessing. They each have a personality all her own. And I tell them that their hugs are their super power giving me so much strength and happiness.

If you don’t already know My Little Princesses, please allow me to introduce you…

First. there’s Lily, my oldest niece. Lily is the responsible, loving, nurturing artist.

Next is Ava, my 4-year-old. Ava will get her own gratitude post, but for now, suffice it to say that she is the princessiest of them all.

Then there is my 4-year-old niece, Evangeline. Evangeline is the beautiful, sensitive, determined adventurer.

Lastly (for now), there is Abigael. Abigael is our adorably cute honey badger. She’s got some serious charm, but she also don’t give a s–t.

This little pack of princesses gives me so much love and joy I can barely stand it. And just when I thought I couldn’t possibly be blessed with anymore princess joy, there’s another little princess niece on the way!

I’m so grateful for all My Little Princesses!!