Happy Birthday, Laura!

I have decided that I'm going to blog about each of my immediate family members on their birthday this year. I like to share with everyone why I love them so much! Today is my sister Laura's birthday. She is four years younger than me, living in Kansas City and planning her June wedding to her high school sweetheart. Two summers ago, she came and lived with us while she completed her internship. I missed her before that, but I've missed her even more since.

Here are a few of the very special things about my next-youngest sis:

We are a lot alike. We have the same sense of humor, look alike in many ways, get annoyed at (and a kick out of) the same commercials, etc.

We are also quite different. I'm a push-over, she's stubborn. I'm a wimp, she's really, REALLY tough. I'm a morning person, Laura...not so much! :)

Laura is a fantastic friend. She is one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. To know her is to love her.

She LOVES caramel frappucinos, just like her big sis.

She has a degree in Merchandising, and works at Crate & Barrel. She's incredibly artistically and organizationally talented.

Laura strongly dislikes cooking. Her fiance Brett enjoys it, so I think they'll make it. I am thoroughly convinced she would (will be) a great cook if she tried. However, I know she'll have a fabulous kitchen!!

She endured a lot of bossing around from me in her childhood, and she still loves me. She can take on a lot with lots of grace.

She's a truly amazing aunt to Cameron and Elly. She loves them to bits and pieces.

She's brave. And strong. I admire these traits about her so much.

She's a good driver, and drives a manual car better than most guys can!

She's trendy and cute. Always!

Laura, I hope you had a beautiful birthday. Our lives wouldn't be as rich without you in them. You are such a special person and I love you very much!

Sonya, Laura, Michelle. August 2007.

Sonya, Michelle, Laura. August 2008.