My sweet sister Victoria

This is my youngest sister, Victoria, and my youngest daughter, Kiera. I just love this picture of them. I think it really captures family and all that it means. I love having a big family with 5 sisters. I am the eldest of 6 girls and I have a sister who is 14. At first it was very weird. My mom got pregnant right after I had a miscarriage. It was very, very hard on me. Then my mom was a mom with a new baby and it was just different for me. After 2 years I got pregnant and had Meaghan. Again, things were strange. My mom wasn't that grandma I always imagined, she was a mom with a nursing 2 year old. I would say that our relationship (my mom's and mine) was really stressed over those years. I think that being the eldest has its advantages but it also has is disadvantages too.

I will say though that as I grew up and had more children and my children became close to my sisters it became more of a blessing than anything. Victoria has such a special place in the hearts of and my children and is such a special sister to me. She is one of Meaghan's best friends. Since they are only 2 years apart it has been so nice for Meaghan. She has someone to hang out with at all of the many holiday gatherings. And now I see the relationship with her and Kiera growing. It is so sweet. Kiera adores her! I know they will be continue to be kindred souls from here on out.

So for those of you that are that are like me and have those days where you are wondering if a big family is worth all of this time and energy - I believe it totally is and the rewards will truly spring forth as time goes by.