Alice the Great

Last weekend Tarzan, MJM and I spent time with my youngest sister and her family in Oklahoma.  I always leave there more emergized, refreshed and reflective.

Reflection: 

2 parents, 5 children, 20 grandchildren. 27 unique personalities with common heritage, familiar mannerisms, similar traits and different thought processes.

Environment vs genetics is an age old question. It's one that could serve as a great social experiment in our family.

Alice, the youngest, shares my small bladder, we have our mother's hands, the Rand butt, and could pass as relatives in a line up.

She has a similar strong business acumen and drive to succeed. I trust. She trusts with validation. 

She has watched her four siblings and learned from our experiences. I learned the hard way. I am addicted to the deal (thanks dad), I shop online (thanks mom), she underspends (I don't even know who to thank). I cook for an army in 20 minutes or less, she cooks "just enough".

As a 17 year old she influenced my children and as a 32 year old she influences me. Some of the best counsel I get is from the girl (can I still call you that?) who listens and gives an objective (most of the time ;) ) opinion on the situation. She isn't to proud to ask when she needs an ear or advice. Most important, she lives an uncomplicated life always putting her family first.

A proud sister moment this week:

An interview on local TV

Another proud moment, her new venture:

Living life intuitively http://theitoldyousogirl.blogspot.com/?m=1

She makes me smarter. She encourages me to be a better mom, better wife, friend and sister.  She has a high moral value and loyalty code. And all 26 of us are damn lucky to share a life with her.