An older sister is a friend and defender - a listener, conspirator, a counsellor and a sharer of delights. And sorrows too.

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

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

For sheer excitement you can keep movie premieres and roller-coasters . An empty white canvas waiting to be filled. That's the thing.

Medicines may be necessary. Flowers lift the heart. But your smile is the best restorative of all.

Sisters don't need words. They have perfected a language of snarls and smiles and frowns and winks - expressions of shocked surprise and incredulity and disbelief. Sniffs and snorts and gasps and sighs - that can undermine any tale you're telling.

When sisters stand shoulder to shoulder, who stands a chance against us?