I lived in Southern California through sixth grade. My dad was a long-haul truck driver and was transferred to Tucumcari, New Mexico. I lived there through high school, then moved to Reno Nevada for a couple years, then to Oregon where I now live with my husband of 29 years.
I am the youngest of 4 kids. The oldest, Donna is thirteen years older than me. She has Down Syndrome and brings so much joy into my life. She is always happy, she loves everyone, you just can’t help but be happy when you see her. My brother Randy and sister Diane are the middle kids. With 9 years separating Diane and myself, Donna and I were left home with our parents. Donna was sort of my built in friend regardless if she wanted to play or not. I recall one time, I wanted Donna to say my name. She is not able to say most words. They come out more like a grunt or a sound. Some times it’s like playing charades. Anyway, I wanted her to say my name (Nina was my nickname that family used). She use to call me and my sister girl or boy. So, I told her that if she didn’t say Nina, I wouldn’t talk to her). I know that was not nice, but hey, I was about 8 years old at the time. She called to me ‘girl’, ‘GIRL’, I ignored her. She then said ‘NE-NA’. WOW. I couldn’t believe it. Our mom couldn’t believe it. From then she always called me Nina. Another time, we were playing school. I taught her to write her name. I’m sure I drove her crazy and she probably figured there was no sense in trying to get away from me because I would find her. Well, she learned to write her name and can still write her name today.
My sister Diane and I have always been close. As I mentioned earlier, there is 9 years separating us. Growing up I idolized everything about her. Vacations were so difficult. She lived in California while Mom, Dad, Donna and myself lived in New Mexico. We went back to see the family in California every winter and summer. Each time, at least a day before our trip ended, I would be in tears because I hated leaving my sister. I am so thankful that we have each other now and that we have continued to grow in love and respect for each other. Our relationship is stronger than it has ever been. This is God’s work for sure.