Sisters never quite forgive each other for what happened when they were five.

Kittens are wide-eyed, soft and sweet. With needles in their jaws and feet.

You took me to adventure and to love. We two have shared great joy and great sorrow. And now I stand at the gate of the paddock watching you run in an ecstasy of freedom, knowing you will return to stand quietly, loyally, beside me.

Odd how much it hurts when a friend moves away- and leaves behind only silence.

A younger sister is someone to use as a guinea-pig in trying sledges and experimental go-carts. Someone to send on messages to Mum. But someone who needs you - who comes to you with bumped heads, grazed knees, tales of persecution. Someone who trusts you to defend her. Someone who thinks you know the answers to almost everything.

Integrity rings like fine glass. True, clear, and reassuring.

Bears being sent through the mail should never be squashed up to make them fit. It gives them indigestion.