Aunt Karen's Birthday

Today is Aunt Karen's Birthday.

And since the Ascencio Family loves her, I feel it is news worthy to be noted in our blog.

She is 37.

I remember when that used to sound old to me.

Now it just feels right around the corner.

Aunt Karen, my older sister, is a wonderful person.

She fiercely loves her family!

And, since I am lucky enough to be her sister, I will always feel loved as long as I live.

I talk to my sister several times a week.

Even though she is more active than almost everyone I know (except Aunt Monica, of course) she always has time to take my calls.  Even if she is running to a parade with her hands full, she answers her phone when I call.  And you know me... I say "Karen!  Are you crazy?  You don't have to answer your phone just because its ringing!".  But she doesn't care.  She tries her best to be a Mom, Sister, Wife, Teacher, Grand-daughter, Daughter and friend.  She is smart enough to know I need someone to listen to me, so I can maintain my sanity.

It is safe to say...

She lives each day to its fullest.

Here are a few pictures of Karen I thought I would share.

From time to time she still looks as cute as she does here.

The saddest part of this picture is that I have memories of wearing that same striped one-piece short outfit.

And, I'm 5 years younger than her!

She was the center of our family back then, too.
At least we let her think that.. hehe!

Is it me, or does Abby resemble young-Darlene in this picture?

This picture was taken at GG's old townhouse.

I loved that place.

And, to make sure Loretta doesn't feel left out, here is a picture of the four of us.

Karen obviously woke up late the day the picture was taken because she didn't get a chance to do her hair.

And if she actually did her hair, oh boy!

(Yes, we had the wallpaper picture in our living room growing up.  I actually liked it then.  What was wrong with me?)

Well, Happy Birthday Karen Eileen.

We love you.