RACHEL ANN

I don't remember much about her in my earlier years, and that surprises myself because I have vivid memories from an early age. I do remember her and Melissa telling stories about an invisible elevator in our closet that conveniently only worked for them. And I remember being jealous of her blue eyes. They changed shades like gems reflecting light. In a dark blue sweater they sparkled like saphires and anything lighter brought out the color of the sky. I'm still jealous.

I do remember she loved to read. During my busy tom boy era, I had no time to read; but her fascination with books fascinated me. She also ALWAYS brought home good grades. It didn't matter if it was coloring in Kindergarten or Physics at Milford High, she was a complete genius...sometimes unaware of her potential. I think it was her innocence.

And although she had a passion for reading, she had a pure hatred for playing baseball with my dad. I thought she was crazy. Who would rather read than catch fly balls in the old Milford park? On a family outing, she would come kicking and screaming with a resolve to have an awful time. Dad would tease her until she flashed a smile that said as long as I'm here, I might as well play.

She was more than a sister. In high school, she was my best friend even if I wouldn't admit it at the time. When most sisters fought over outfits and boys, we shared friends and dated brothers. I remember bragging to everyone about how she took Trig and Calculus during the same year as a Sophomore. I'll never forget her Prom, her Sterling Scholar portfolio, the Studentbody President election, and her slew of scholarships. I wanted to be just like her.

Each day that passes brings me even closer to my sister. I've learned I don't have another sister that loves chocolate or Coke or debating more than she does. I'm fully aware that she is an incredible mother, a patient wife, a loyal sister, and one heck of a fighter. She knows that she can be happy in any location, in any phase of life. Luckily, this attitude tends to rub off on the people she's around.

Rachel is a Hebrew name meaning innocent lamb. The dictionary describes innocent as having the simplicity of an unworldly person. Rachel is simple, and she innocently sees the good in all those she knows and loves. A better description....Rachel is simply incredible! I still want to be just like Rachel Ann.