Happy Dirty Thirty, Little Sister!


You know those little dolls that middle schoolers carry around for a homework project? The ones that give them a glimpse into what it would be like to care for another human being? I had that assignment…except my baby dolls were living, breathing, crying, pooping, eating, loving, real, little people. They’re called little sisters, and I have five. The last of them is almost exactly ten years younger than me, but it turns out that she was my biggest teacher about the tasks of motherhood until I had my own.

She was the cutest, sparkly brown-eyed, lisp-talking, thick-haired, brunette baby girl you ever did see. All of her firsts were so important to me – her first tooth, her first step, her first sentence, her first day of kindergarten, her first kiss, her first period, her first heartbreak, her first car…her first son, and her first daughter.

Yesterday was another big first for her, and a big last for our family…as her first day as a thirty-year-old also meant the last of all of our siblings to leave their twenties. With grace and beauty she made her transition. Hair done – check. Pedicure – check. Manicure – check. New outfit – check. High heeled boots – check. The most amazing smile on the face of our litte sister – CHECK!

I love you, Nickie! No matter where our lives ever take us in the future, we will always be connected by our past…and I am so enjoying the present with the BFF’s that followed me out of Mama’s womb. Happy Dirty Thirty, Little Sister!

About thisnest

The Sparrows are happily married, and the parents of five children. Donna and her husband Antonio are college sweethearts who also raised his seven siblings, many with special needs, for nearly two decades. Along the way they have navigated the ups and downs of being a blended, black, white, and brown family. Donna celebrates each day of blessings and embraces her family’s “interraciality” through poetry, anecdotes, and glimpses into her beautifully chaotic life on her blog at www.ThisNest.com
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3 Responses to Happy Dirty Thirty, Little Sister!

  1. Momma says:

    As always, you’ve made me cry. I love you all so much. It is a hard milestone for me as well, but it was so precious sharing the big day with you all.

  2. Nickie Dean says:

    Your amazing Donna! I love you so much. I am so thankful to have you as one of my most favorite people in this world and I am beyond blessed to be able to call you my big sister. Xoxox

  3. Carissa says:

    i feel honored to know you beautiful souls!!

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