Kristin, my older sister is childless by choice. This doesn't mean she isn't one of the most maternal people I know. She is AWESOME at taking care of people (and children) and goes out of her way to make them feel special.

It's what makes her an incredible person. Long before I had a baby, I enjoyed taking care of people in maternal ways. It made me feel good to do it--even before we even thought about having Owen. In short, having a child isn't a prerequisite to being a caring, loving, maternal person.

No sorries please, Kristin--not for sharing yourself with us. I hope you've told her, or will someday.

Kristin, your mom is the sweetest!

I think one of the main reasons I always wanted to be a mom was because I wanted to be able to be the kind of mom she has been for me.

And, so are you.

You gave me warm fuzzies.

In short, having a child isn't a prerequisite to being a caring, loving, maternal person.

Very true, and I plan on being the best adopted Aunt ever as well as good friend.

I hope you've told her, or will someday.

Oh yes. She and I regularly exchange long, schmoopy cards and letters telling each other how grateful we are to have the relationship that we do. We also spend a lot of time just hanging out and chatting. She's one of my best friends in the world. I think some of that comes from being an only child and from the fact she and Dad divorced in '93 and she's never remarried or been even in a serious relationship since. (I'm pretty sure that "fierce independence" is embedded on the X chromosome I inherited from her.) She rocks.

Man, that schmoopy tag just won't close.

Kristin, want some quality one on one Emeline while you're here??

That's some good schmoop.

-t!! Iwas just thinking about you. How are you?

-t, good to see you. Hope you are doing okay!

Kristin, your mom rocks. What a great way to start the day.

I like the Mom schmoop. Before my mom got crazy, she was totally kick ass like that. That's what I remember best.