A conversation with Karen, Erin’s (former) Big Sister

Erin lives in Pearland, Texas with her husband, Andon, and 2 children.   She is the consummate mother of a 2 year old and an 8 year old. She is a stay-at-home Mom, who often babysits other professional women's small children to augment their income.  Andon, also from Venice, got his PhD in Neuroscience at University of Florida, and works in a laboratory…currently his research is on nicotine/smoking addiction, but for some time his research was regarding Alzheimer's.

Although we don't see each other often, we do talk and email...mostly we give each other advice about our kids and husbands (and it goes both ways).  Funny how that works!  I met her and was matched with Erin when she was 8 yrs. old, and I was in my 30's. Now she is 35, and we are still good friends, but have certainly evolved thru life's episodes over the span of 28 years! 

One of the most unforgettable and touching memories of our friendship was on the day my son (now 22) was born.  After my sons early morning birth, our first visitor was Erin, accompanied by her mother, laden with a large bag of gifts for my little "prize".  She had picked out the funniest little outfits...a baby tuxedo, a Santa outfit complete with red stocking cap for the December birthday, and a few other special gifts.  I will never forget how much my husband and I enjoyed having Erin be a part of our truly BIG day.  It meant so much to me that she cared so much to come as soon as school was out!  

Rewind to the present day, with Erin being a special mother of 2 beautiful children and a wonderful husband supporting her in all she does.  I share this story with you, so you too, can see the impact 2 individuals can have on each others lives which continues to this day… remaining close friends with a Big Sister/Little Sister is a bond that can never be broken!