my sister.

It was a great weekend. And tonight is a great night. Our schedules usually don't permit the fabulousness that's been the past few days, but we love it when they do. I used to think I was going to spend a lot of my life without a friend like this...but one day, an incredible thing happened.

When I was 11, I met this really snobby girl. I was friends with her sister, and I wasn't really sure I was going to like her. She came from the "cooler/upscale" school in "town" to our little, backwoods elementary school. And, I can't say we hit it off...

But then, in almost an instant, we became the best of friends. Life changed forever. I have a fabulous big brother, the best anyone could ask for. But, surrounded by boys all of my life, I really wished I had a sister. I had no idea Jesus would give us such a gift. He's really good at what He does.

And, without her, this season of life would be so different. And much harder. Friday night, we decorated my Christmas tree. And, with the final ornament in place, we shut the lights off to fully see the tree in its glory. You could hear quiet tears as I whispered, "She would be really proud of this tree...", both of us misty-eyed. It's true - sorrow divided.

And man do we laugh. About anything. And everything. Laughter is the token trait of quality life, to me anyway. And my sister makes it easy...

When I am down and need to cry till morning,

I know just where I am going.

When I'm in need of sweet commiseration

To speak out loud...

Raise a glass to friendship

And to knowing you don't have to go alone.

We'll raise out hearts to share each other's burdens

On this road.

Every burden I have carried,

Every joy--it's understood.

Life with you is half as hard,

And twice as good.

With my good news you're dancing on the table:

Baby's born, to celebration.

The joy of life, oh what a sweet communion,

Shared with you.

Every burden I have carried,

Every joy--it's understood.

Life with you is half as hard,

And twice as good.

I know we're growing older,

Can you imagine what that will bring?

It's all a mystery to me now,

Except this one thing:

It'll be half as hard, and twice as good