It happened many years a go. A promise was made between two sisters.

A promise that we would always be there for each other, and for our children. It was important for us to remember their special day, and we were determined to make every attempt to send a birthday card to our children, and get to know them on a personal level.

We promised that we would support each other, and listen and learn from each other. Hold each other accountable. Our hope was that we were going to break the cycle, and make every effort to stay connected.

Build relationships that we did not have the privilege of experiencing with our own Aunts. Establish traditions, that would hopefully result in lasting memories.

We were holding true to this promise, when the life altering event of the death of my sister, took place ten years a go. This caused, among many other things, a lack of connection to her children. The distance and the grief created an invisible barrier.

However, I am still committed to the promise I made to her.

I have created some new memories, and I’m excited to carry on new traditions. More importantly, I’ve re-connected with two beautiful lives, and I’ve made another promise.

A promise to her kids, and to their kids. I will be here for you, and I’m looking forward to building memories together.