Friendship
The Perks of Having a Sister That My Daughter’s Missing Out On
I am the oldest of two girls. I’m exactly two years and one month older than my sister. Growing up we had a very typical sibling relationship. We played with each other a lot. Sometimes out of necessity and occasionally because we actually wanted to. When we fought, it was bad. In my mind, I was the only one with a license to hurt her or make fun of her in any way. When we’d have a bad fight, my mom would get really upset. I remember her telling us that we had to be kind to each other. She’d say we needed to stick by each other. I didn’t “get” it at the time. Now that we are grown and live 1,000 miles apart, I cannot imagine a life without her and I appreciate the perks of having a sister.
I have one son and one daughter. I feel a little sad when I think about the fact that my daughter will never have the experience of having a sister. There are perks of having a sister that my daughter’s missing out on.
Borrowing clothes
Raiding my sister’s closet was one of the best perks of growing up with a sister. It was also the root of a lot of our worst fights. Many of you know my famous “black jeans” story. My sister had the audacity to wear my black jeans to her job at a coffee shop without asking me. I honestly thought it would be okay to go visit her there and demand she take them off. I don’t believe I even planned to bring her something suitable to change into after said demand. Today, she still sends me her reject clothes and I gladly accept. Most of the time.
Mom advice
My sister started having kids before I did, so two of her three are older than mine. She is the first person I go to when I’m in search of some solid advice. I can count on her any time I have to vent or need help.
Product advice
This is something that has changed over the years. Bonne Belle Lip Smackers and Bath and Body Works lotion have morphed into sunscreen, essential oils, and anti-aging products. Not as exciting, but a bit more practical.
Shared hobbies
Growing up, my sister and I both loved music. We still do. We were fortunate enough to go to the same vocal music camp together for many summers. Both of us were part of the same choir in high school. Whenever I hear a song that we’ve sung together, it totally takes me back. Even if the song is TLC’s No Scrubs and the performance was in conjunction with the car radio on full blast.
While she may miss out on the perks of having a sister, I know my daughter will still be able to experience wonderful things with her brother.
Family trips
We’ve taken many long-distance car trips as a family. Many more will come in the future. Who will be best at helping my daughter re-live all those hours spent in the car driving to places she loves? A brother.
Life advice
At ages 7 and 8, life advice often consists of what flavor popsicle to choose. Unfortunately, the decisions will get harder, but the support will remain. Who will that constant be? A brother.
Unconditional love
We always tell our kids that family is forever. Friends may come and go, but you will always have your sibling. If that sibling isn’t a sister, then who do you have? A brother.
