* Video by SLPBook A Session

When I was at The University of Arizona when I joined the mentoring program Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tucson.  Before I gush about how incredible this program is, I have to explain how Ariel and I were matched.  I had to choose between three little girls just based on age and paperwork.  I was told that Ariel had three brothers and her dream was to one day become a princess.  At the time, I was Fiesta Bowl Princess and I quickly said, “I’ll take her!” (I know that sounds like I was buying a puppy or something, I promise I wasn’t treating it like that!)  When we first met, we did a fun little art project and I brought over a purple teddy bear as a gift.

After I graduated from college I moved to LA and Ariel visited me, it was her first time on a flight and we had a blast.

From training bras (sorry sis, don’t kill me but it’s obvious that age has passed) to prom dresses and now baby clothes…what!!!  It is crazy to think of my little sis being married and pregnant!  My little sis cannot be grown up.  But yes, she is.

Joey was awesome enough to take a few sister pictures of us as I directed him how to take photos and he did an amazing job.   Thanks Joey!

Um ps, when I stand up my skirt is NOT that short.  It just pulled up when I sat down, so don’t think I run around in minis.  And yes, I’m tall.  I’m like Yao Ming.  I’ll slam dunk right over you!! Well, if I was into sports I probably could.

My sis looks like a supermodel right here. I did her makeup!

My favorite.  Ariel is actually wearing my dress from Paris!  I added one of my favorite belts from J. Crew.  Isn’t it darling on her?

Now how about some maternity lifestyle photos at home?  Yes!  Too bad I do this when I’m not pregnant!

A little flashback of us once upon a time…

During my entire junior year as Miss Southeast Arizona 2002, I wore my crown everywhere.  When I went to class, slept, and even the park.  See?

I spoke to Ariel’s 3rd grade class.   My platform as  a local titleholder was mentoring and so, I went to her classroom and spoke about staying in school, getting good grades, and going to college.  Ariel is on the far left, looking shy (but she was so proud).  I look like the Jolly Green Giant back there.

This was college graduation night.  I made her this big sign with our pictures, my pageant community service awards I won because of her.  I made this as motivation so she knew I wasn’t far away and she could see I went to college and she could do it.  This still hangs in her bedroom and it makes me giggle.  Look how little she was.  And look at my tiger print dress from Victoria’s Secret.  Rawr.

With my parents after my graduation lunch.

You can make an incredible difference in a child’s life by mentoring.  You’ll also be incredibly surprised at the difference your “little” will have on your life.  For more information visit the national site for Big Brothers Big Sisters to find a local chapter.  You’ll go through a background and in-depth interview process but I promise you this will be one of the best investments you’ll ever do with your time – pouring into the life of another child who is raised in a single-parent family.  If you have any questions about this organization feel free to send me a message, I promoted the organization during my college years.

You will feel a sense of fulfillment.  You will love a child as if they were your own little brother or sister, and it will be an incredible experience being able to use your life as a testimony.  To this day, when I get random texts from Ariel thanking me for being in her life and supporting her, and how grateful she is to God for me, it absolutely moves me.

I love you sis.

Personal, Portraits

3 Notes Left

1. Ashley says:

   May 4, 2010 at 4:02 PM

   Diana!!! This is soooo adorable! I was brought to tears, what an amazing story of joy and love!!! :) You are such a wonderful role model! :)

2. Rachel says:

   May 4, 2010 at 4:28 PM

   I love it Di! What a wonderful example how two people can enrich each others lives in so many ways through friendship! You both look beautiful! I have heard so much about Ariel over the years- It’s hard for me to believe she is a grown woman starting a family already! Congratulations Ariel!! I love you Di!!!

3. Tina says:

   May 4, 2010 at 5:10 PM

   You hoochie in the mini :p. Girlfriend you are a doll! What a great program and example you show. Your sister is such a darling mom-to-be. Great job lady!