The kids and I went to a birthday dinner tonight for my Uncle Stan. Funny thing is, none of us can remember exactly the last time we were together...we just agree it has been far too many years. My Aunt Barb (one of my mom's sisters) and Uncle Stan actually live in Northern NY, but are "snowbirds" and spend a few months in the South. Their daughter, Bev, lives quite close to me here in SC. Their other daughters live in NY. All of their girls planned a special surprise party for his 70th and traveled here to celebrate together! It was so fun to see them again. I really don't think I was even a teenager yet the last time I saw my cousins.
This is my cousin, April...who is a faithful follower of my blog! Thanks to technology, we are getting to know one another and it has been such a blessing!
Paige was quite shy at first, but it didn't take long for her to warm up. By the end of the night, she was walking around snapping pictures of everyone who would allow and cracking us all up with her cake eating talent! She may make some good money as a paparazzi some day!
My cousin, Bev and Nathan looking at the "nemo" fish!
My Aunt Lorna (another of my mom's sisters). Paige took about 30 pictures like this one! I was so glad to be a part of tonight!!On to things I am thankful for this week...
*The "Chai Latte" mix I found at Walmart this week. Mixed with just the right amount of warm milk and a dab of whip cream...PERFECTION! Now if only my sister was here on the couch with me to share it!*FAMILY...those like my sister and parents who have always been a daily part of my life...those like my "in-laws" (that term seems somehow cheap to me) who inherited me but treat me like their own...those like my Aunt Joyce and Uncle Dave (and their family) who have been so much a part of my life growing up that I can recall without even trying countless memories of days gone by...and those like the ones I was blessed to share an evening with tonight who I don't know well, but still have a special place in my heart, because no matter what kind of family it is, there is NOTHING ELSE that can fill that part of your heart!!
*My "Esther" group. We have completed the 9 week study and I was so sad for it to end. These ladies have embraced me like I have been their friend for years. We shared and learned so much together and they are truly special people.
*Journals. Old journals like the one I hold dear that reminded me that 11 years ago today I was beginning to prepare for the most difficult day of my life, yet strangely at peace knowing it was right. Well used journals that keep all the developmental milestones, funny sayings and heart-wrenching stories of raising my precious children. Every day life journals that help me see how far the Lord has brought me and remind me that He will continue to carry me. I love that I have journals to document every part of my life, even if no other eye graces their pages. They help me. They challenge me. They give me a safe place to share my heart.
2 comments:
Hey Liss,
It was so neat to see my sister and my two nieces. . . thank you for posting the pictures. (That's the happiest I have seen your Aunt Barb in years!) The monoxide poisoning that happened years ago did a number on her. I simply cannot believe how much you and April Dawn resemble one another. From day one you have looked like her. You both are so sweet. Isn't she an incredible lady? So. . what did you have for supper? Paige looks so very happy! I'm glad that she warmed up and had fun! I'm guessing that several people held Nate, as he is such a cuddle bug.
Love you bunches, Liss.
Mom
I am so glad that we had the opportunity to spend the evening together. It was wonderful in so many ways. Give Paige and Nathan a hug for me. They are precious!
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