My sister Judy and I used to date; each other.  For quite some time, throughout much of our 30’s in fact, we were each single.  Some on-line dating efforts proved occasionally to be fruitful but nothing so long-term that we had to give up our shopping, movies and dinner dates.  We accompanied each other to every family gathering including christenings, birthday parties and weddings.  Wherever Judy went, Kelly was sure to follow (or be in the seat right next to her).

Judy has a fantastic sense of humor.  One year for my birthday she sent me a “from both of us” card.  When I opened it, I saw that she had signed it from Judy and Sam.  I was certainly puzzled since I knew at the time there was no “Sam”.   It was at that point we created  pretend husbands, Sam (and Judy) and Bob (and Kelly).

As we continued to escort each other to family events, we would refer to Sam and Bob (who were in business together and always traveling) in our conversations.  We would walk into a party and someone would ask, “Are Sam and Bob working, again?”  A good laugh was the answer to the question.

As it turned out, in our early forties, we each got married.  I married Steve.  And, in my “joy” picture today my sister is marrying her soul mate, Bob.Even more than my date for so many family events and Saturday night dinner and movies, Judy has also been my confidante, my cheerleader, my counselor.  She’s calmed my fears, wiped my tears, shared my successes, and always, always has made me laugh!  I love my sister.

Thank you, Judy.

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