My Sister Bonnie

Sister, we've shared so much
We've laughed and cried together and helped each other grow
Told each other secrets that no one else will ever know
Celebrated milestones and shared comfort in defeat
Supported one another with no need to compete
We've revealed our deepest feelings
And admitted faults and fears
Weathered the changing seasons
and grown closer through the years
For all the precious memories
Of which you are a part
I thank you and I love you
From the bottom of my heart.

Dear Julie:
I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write this. It's not that I haven't had "enough" time--I've just had a "difficult" time in dealing with the reality of it all. I miss you more and more with each passing day. I've heard that it gets easier?? Right now, my heart still aches as badly as it did the very moment I heard the news from Jerry early that morning. I can't even begin to understand why this happened, much less express how it has affected me, our family, and our friends.

There are so many things I wish I would have told you. I know that you knew how much I loved you; however, it would have been nice to have had one last sisterly heart-to-heart. I would have told you that, when we were growing up, you were my HERO! You were always so strong and independent. Your passion for life inspired me and gave me a bit of strength and independence of my own. You never seemed to let anything stand in your way. You saw the good in the bad and didn't let much get you down. Your overwhelming determination brought many wonderful things into your life. You were never afraid of the unknown and had tremendous adventures because of your free-spirited nature. I'm so proud of you for never giving up and trying so hard when times were tough.

If we could have had that one last opportunity to reminisce and chat for awhile, I would have told you how beautiful I thought you were. I probably never told you that because I could have been a tiny bit jealous! I remember when we were teenagers, so often people thought you were the older one. You had all of the right curves in all of the right places! Your big "Hollywood" smile, not to mention your dimples, brightened the darkest room. Your deep blue eyes twinkled between those endless lashes. On your worst day, you were a knockout! I think that had much to do with the fact that you felt pretty. You always seemed comfortable with your looks and that confidence shone through. I'd give anything to see that smile again and to touch your sweet face.

You were more than my sister--you were my best friend for nearly 32 years. I know at times we fought like cats and dogs. There was much competition between us and with that came disagreements, but they never lasted long, and in a sense we appreciated each other more. Sometimes I even miss the confrontations of sort because we could let out our frustrations and end it all with a good cry and a huge hug! We had far more good times than bad anyhow.

I find myself craving your energy and fun-loving ways. There was never a dull moment when we were together. I will always treasure my childhood with you and carry the precious memories in my heart. You were so special to everyone who knew you and I'm so thankful to have had you for my sister. I wish we could have spent more time together the past couple of years. I wish you were here!!

I love you, Julie.
Bonnie

Bonnie
Varsity Cheerleader
1984

Bonnie
Junior-Senior Prom
1985

The Alfords
Christmas 2001
David, Kelan, Bonnie, Ashley

My sister shares a part of me
That no one else shall ever see
And when the days and miles divide us
The bond we have shall live inside us
Together sharing dreams, love and laughter
My sister for always
My friend----forever after.