Little Sisters: Pests or Bests?

I would like you all to know about my favorite person in the world.

Her name is Bridget Ilise Jones and she is my baby sister.

This is her as a sweet little girl:

When we were little, we were either best friends or dire enemies. One time when she was three I locked her in our basement because I thought it would make her disappear. Fortunately, I was wrong and she's still here.

We always made up after a skirmish by playing with our Polly Pockets and Barbies. One of my favorite memories of her was on her 4th birthday. She got a little pedal car as a present and was so excited to drive it that she snuck out into the driveway while we weren't looking and drove it wearing nothing but her underwear and sunglasses. It was so funny that the whole family just stood outside watching her and laughing.

This is Bridget more recently:

Bridget:

• dresses in her own way regardless of the latest styles
• has a humongous crush on Christofer Ingle
• is Team Jacob all the way
• is a very talented ballet and tap dancer
• can text faster than most people can type
• hates potatoes (she's crazy just like me)
• is sensitive to others around her
• is unlike any other fourteen year old that I've ever met
• is the best little sister I could have gotten. I'm so glad we chose each other

Everyone tells us that we have the same eyes (except that hers are a beautiful blue) and freckles and I agree.

Bridget is my favorite person in the whole world.

Little sisters are God's way of ensuring that you always have a best friend.

Unfortunately Bridget has a multitude of physical problems.

Two years ago, Bridget was diagnosed with scoliosis.

Scoliosis is a serious spinal condition that causes the spine to look like a giant 'S' and cripples people if not treated.

You can read more about it here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scoliosis

Today, Bridget had surgery where the doctors placed metal rods in her back and removed one of her ribs in order to straighten her spine. The scar will reach from her left shoulder blade all the way down to her belly button.

The picture above is today after her surgery. She is one brave weenie faker (our teasing nickname for when someone is a chicken, long story).

I could never, ever, ever go through something like this.

I can't even get a shot without crying.

I love my little sister very much. She is a much braver person than I'll ever be.