Happy Birthday, Jodi Marie!

Today I celebrate the birthday of my older sister, Jodi. Jodi is my best friend and I thank the heavens every day for her in my life. I have 2 much younger sisters whom I LOVE and are extremely close to also- but Jodi and I are closer in age and have something much deeper, we've been through alot together.

When we were kids, it was really tough for us to get along. She was always good in school and I.. well.. my grades weren't anything to be proud of. I often had to wear her hand-me-downs and our mother would make her take me along to her friends' houses. She was pretty, popular and had lots of friends while I was ditching classes and smoking behind the school with the wild crowd. We would physically fight alot- she packed a hard punch and I always had long sharp nails (scratch! lol).

But throughout our childhood and teen years, despite the fights and the glaring eyes, she always took care of me. She was the oldest sister and really took on a "mothering" role. We both were subjected to our mother's physical abuse that began at young ages and Jodi would often shield me and take mom's blow herself. She'd never let anyone hurt me or treat me wrongly.

As we got older and moved away from home during our late teens, we grew even more closer. A few years later.. we became roommates, worked together at 2 businesses and she was also at my side in my wedding. The past 20+ years, Jodi has been the one person I always turn to when I need advice, or comfort or just an understanding ear to cry to. That's a pretty big job for her but she does it, and she never gripes. She's always been there for me. Always.

We've never lived very far from each other, she's always been in the same home or just a short drive away. But two years ago she moved to Pittsburgh (I'm in Illinois) and it's been really hard to cope with not seeing her whenever I want to. We still talk often on the phone or internet, but... I miss her so much.

I just want to say thanks.. to her.. for everything she's given me. The very best sisterhood, friendship and unconditional acceptance and love.

From the time that we were little, I knew you'd always be

Not just a loving sister, but a caring friend to me.

We have a special bond, I knew it from the start

You'll have my love forever - we're sisters, heart to heart.

The way you take care of me, you're my shining star

And though it's so incredible, that's just the way you are.

As long as we are living, no matter when are where

If you ever need me, just call and I'll be there.

I'll climb a thousand mountains and swim a thousand seas

Anything to be there, 'cause you've been there for me.

Happy Birthday, Jodi Marie!
(her name is Jodi Lynn but I've always called her Jodi Marie,
just to be a pain - I have NO clue how it started lol)
And remember, you'll always be older than me! Ha! :P

I created this card for Jodi using the June monthly kit from Artful Delight. I love that lil bird, so cute and whimsical :)

Thanks for visiting :)

Abby