One of the first questions people ask when they first meet you is, “Do you have any siblings?”. It’s a simple question, yet it can tell you so much about a person. Those who are an only child have never had to go through the struggle of sharing their toys with another kid, while those with siblings know all too well that the toys in the toy room are up for grabs on a daily basis. Personally, I have had the blessing of experiencing the best of both worlds (and the challenges that come with both lifestyles), but my story is unique.
The first 10 years of my life I was an only child. I had the luxury of having my own room, all my own toys, and receiving ALL of my parents’ attention. I had cousins who loved to play with me because I was the baby of the family, and I also had aunts and uncles who loved to spoil me rotten. I was highly convinced that life could not get any better than it was at the time. That is until I found out I had a little sister on the way. At a mere nine years old I didn’t completely understand the concept of adoption, but I knew enough to comprehend that my “only child” story was coming to an end. My mom and dad sat me down at the dining room table in March and there. As I sat down at the table the first thought that ran through my head was that I was in trouble… AGAIN. On the computer screen, was a picture of a baby girl. There she was, Amelia Grace Isabella Vandemore, my new little sister. She had the biggest brown eyes, the chunkiest cheeks, and the blackest hair.
The next 6 months were a whirlwind. Social workers were in and out of our house for inspections, my mom was busy decorating Mia’s room, and there were piles of paper work to be filed out. I was flooded with emotions. How was I supposed to just let this little munchkin come waltzing in on my precious territory? But at the same time, I couldn’t help but be excited to grow up alongside Mia.
My parents left for Guatemala in September of 2006 to bring my 6 month-old sister home. I was so anxious to meet her. As the week came to an end I left for the airport to meet the newest addition to our family. We were at the airport for what felt like forever, but I finally saw my mom and dad come down the escalator holding Mia. I was overcome with tears of happiness and shock. I took one look at Mia and knew that this big sister thing wasn’t going to be so bad after all. From that day forward I knew she was the perfect addition to our family.
If I could describe Mia in one word, it would be compassionate. I have never met anyone, let alone a 10 year-old, with a bigger heart than her. She is so full of spunk and is always sassy, earning her the nickname Sas. Mia has taught me so much about life, and has become my best friend.
10 years later and I’m more grateful than ever that my parents decided to adopt. If I have learned anything from adoption, it is that everyone deserves a chance at a great life. Every time I look at Mia I know she in the right place and with the right family. Being an older sister has taught me to be the best version of myself every day in order to be a good role model to my little shadow.
Finally, to Mia:
Thank you for teaching me what being a big sister is all about. I am so thankful for your contagious smile, your silly laugh, and your big heart. God blessed me big time by giving me a partner in crime like you, and I have loved every second of being your big sister. I love you to the moon and back Sas.
