These thoughts are mostly about my sister, Leslie, and therefore indirectly a tribute to Jeff also, for his love, support, and encouragement for Leslie to follow her dreams and to create new ones.
My first recollections of Leslie are those of a crying and cranky infant, who I repeatedly asked my mother to return for a happier (and quieter) model.
I jump forward a few years, to a little sister who was always tagging along and wanting to do everything that I was doing, and at that time I found this truly annoying.
Several more years passed, and I remember a girl who began to show great talents, scholastically, musically, and expending great efforts to do well with activities such as cross country running.
Next come great memories of Leslie joining me for her Spring Break, while I was at college. It was no longer a 'burden' to have a younger sibling wanting to spend time with me, it was neat to have her around.
Soon she went to college herself, met Jeff, became married, and moved to California. What I wouldn't give to have her closer, to be able to spend more time with her. I have been able to visit several times. She has introduced me to several things which have now become my passions as well, including a healthier lifestyle, attempts at exercising and running, Jamba Juice : ) , and most enjoyably - Kayaking.
I am very proud of Leslie, of her involvement with her church, her leadership roles that she takes on - with great commitment, and most recently, her decision to enter the seminary.
As I mentioned at the beginning, I am also proud of Jeff, for his support and encouragement for Leslie to continue to pursue her dreams.
This may not have been exactly what you were looking for, but these are just a few of the thoughts I had when reflecting back on memories of our lives, both together and apart.