dream big

Ella is a truly wonderful big sister. She's always thoughtful, sweet as can be. She loves to play and read books with her sisters. She's a happy helper, and a great example. She's a willing teacher, and remarkably patient. But still, sometimes, Ella's little sisters really get on her nerves.

It happened recently, when Lauren and Audrey both (but especially Lauren) had pestered and provoked Ella all day. At some point, bless her heart, she'd had enough and came to me crying.

"Mom!" she sobbed, "I wish I didn't even have little sisters! I wish I just had one BIG sister who was in the fifth grade. That's my DREAM! And it will NEVER . . . COME . . . TRUE!"