It's A Girl!!

Get your Kleenex, Kim!

Have you ever had a surprise party? 

Or have someone give you some news that you never saw was coming? Such as, "We're moving." or "We're getting a puppy." or "I lost my job today."

I have had all of the scenarios happen to me.  With each one comes a plethera of emotions, some good, some bad but most certainly always overwhelming.  I think that is natural when you are dealing with the surprise of a possibly life-altering experience.

Now, imagine the rush of emotions when you find out you have a sibling that you otherwise had never known.

I was 29 when I found out that I have an older sister that lives in Florida and looks just like our father. Sorry, Kim, but if looks like a Keaton and talks like a Keaton, it must indeed be a Keaton.  Truth's the truth.  We may have been apart all our lives but we made up for within moments of my realization.  The news came in the form of a message on MySpace.  It said simply:

My name is Kim McLaughlin and I am looking for Kenneth Keaton.  I found your name when looking for him.  If you have any information and can help me, it would be greatly appreciated.  My number is (___)___-____.

Or something to that effect.  Honestly, I didn't think a whole lot about it. I immediately called Dad and gave him the number. He said he didn't know who that could be (Seriously, Dad?  There goes your Dad of The Year award.). I was ready to hang up and get on with my day when he replied, "Oh, I know who that is. That's my daughter." Then all I heard after that was Charlie Brown's teacher talking, "Wah, Wah-Wah-Wah, Wah-Wah".  My head was spinning, to say the least.  It took all of about 30 seconds after Dad and I hung for me to decide that I would call her myself.  It was one of the smartest decisions I'd ever made.  There was lots of questions and tears but, I knew right away I had that warm, caring older sister I'd always wanted.  We had an instant bond.  I was not angry with my Dad for not telling us, I was only grateful.  ANOTHER person in my life to share with, love with, laugh with, cry with(we're pretty good at this one), when I already have so many.  How awesome is that?

In the 13 months that have follwed Dec. 14th, 2008, we have talked almost daily via email, phone, and text. We've met in person for 5 wonderful, sweet days that I'll never, ever forget.  My kids INSTANTLY fell in love, my husband think she's great and I love her kids dearly as my own. Kasi is more like a best friend or another sister. Triston is precious, wild, all boy, and super affectionate.  Really, it couldn't have gone more smoothly in a Lifetime movie.  Life is good.  She's my sister and I am so blessed.