After what might be considered as an epic, emotional weekend between our two daughters, I thought I would take a quick break to remember that these are growing pains, that it happens in most family dynamics, and we will get through this.
In reflecting and wishing for the strength to squish the urge to pack my things and move out, I’ve realized that I owe a letter of apology to my sister (and she probably owes one to me) for things we’ve done that we no longer remember.
1978: Me at 5 years old with my younger sister.
So taking my daughters as an example. This is what my letter to my younger sister should probably look like.
Dear Sis,
I am really sorry that I told on you – All. The. Time. I should have realized that you already had a mother who knew how to do ‘her job’, and I didn’t need to take on that role with such passion. I am also sorry that I pointed out everything I did right while, what I was really trying to point out was everything you did wrong. I’m sorry I gave you a pillow, only to get you attached to it then turn around and stake my claim to it under the ‘I had it first’ clause. Legalities can be such a bitch some times.
I’m sorry I named my teddy bear ‘That’s Mine’ and screamed her name really loud every time you even looked at her funny. Actually, I’m sorry I named everything that.
I’m sorry I offered you up to take a bath first and fought my position so fiercely knowing that, at 2 years old, your vocabulary was limited so you couldn’t defend yourself, and to drive my point home I burst into a diva-like crying fit and threw myself on my bed. I really should have gone into acting.
I should have appreciated you more then, like I do now, but I was too busy protecting my prized possessions (that I no longer own or even remember) from your stinky fingers. You were always so grabby.
I love you, and again, I’m sorry.
Signed, Me
That would probably just scratch the surface, but there you go.
Also, taking my daughters’ relationship as an example, I’m absolutely positive I should be getting a letter of apology from my little sister soon too.
2013: My oldest at 5 years old with her younger sister.
And just so my mother, who reads this, doesn’t feel ignored. I already know I owe you a boat load of apologies. I can’t even begin to write that one.
Sheri publishes, and writes at This Bird’s Day where she shares all of the thoughts in her head without the voices. Sticking mainly with content for Canadians, Sheri shares family stories, product information and anything that fits into her (and her family’s) daily activities.
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Haha! Love this. Boy do your girls look like you at that age, especially your youngest.
nice both are looking cute
I owe my little sister a thousand of these and even now at times I do the same thing, we are 7 years apart so a huge difference and it has a lot to do with that and some circumstances, but seeing what your letter said it inspired me, thanks!
Thanks Doris. Upon reflection, I probably owe more apologies to my sister too. Sisters are the best aren’t they?
I have 3 younger sisters, and your post cracked me up! I am going to post this on my google+ page!
Thanks Karan. I’m glad others can relate. It is always nice to know that the disfunction you are in is considered ‘the norm’.
This was awesome to read. I am 8 years older than my little sister and there are things that I should apologize for, I’m sure.
Thanks for sharing this!
I think that comes with the role of sibling. We will all grow up with a list of apologies. Thanks for commenting.
Really cute and honest post. I’d aplogize to my sister…but my kids were too far apart to have the same issues… at least that’s my excuse today. :)
Thanks Jeannie, different age gaps, different issues.
Best post ever. :) I have two little girls right now and I can understand this so well.
Thanks Nicole. Glad to hear I am not alone.
Apologies accepted!!!…….no need to write a boat load…..,what goes around, comes around with your own kids…lol. Yes, I do enjoy reading your blog every day and I see a lot in your two girls that I saw in you and your sister. Think of all the memories they are giving you. With the passing of time, they will become the best of friends. Hugs and kisses to you all…….Mom.
Thanks Mom. Love you too!
I love this. The bear named ‘That’s Mine’ is awesome!!
Thanks Katie. That part made me laugh to myself too.
That. Is. The. Best.
Thanks Kyla.
LOL. So, so true. I owe my siblings that too. Though mine would start “I realize as an only child for 11 years, I should have WANTED siblings. But I didn’t”. :)
Haha. I think it is pretty much the same in all young siblings. So crazy that we go through this.
This was so cute! I know I had some great scraps with my sister and I’ll always remember locking her out on the deck in her pajamas when it was -20 one winter. I was at least 14 when I did it. So crazy the things we do to each other!
Oh Heather, you are so mean. My 14-year old self would have gotten along fabulously!