You know the line in the Hokey Pokey, "That's what it's all about", well Family is what it is all about sometimes. We had a great trip to Texas this past weekend to be there to help Philip's uncle celebrate his 75th birthday. It was a surprise party for him, and boy was he surprised.
It was good time to visit with family too. John has enjoyed getting to know one of his cousins in Texas over the past couple of years, even though they did not grow up knowing each other, they seem to be close after just a few meetings. It is so interesting watching how we connect with family we really never knew. Genetics - there must be something that holds us close, even though we are far.
Lea experienced that this time, for the first time she met a cousin she had only seen pictures of and heard mentioned a few times. She is the sister of Michael, the cousin John has become good friends with. It was like Lea and her cousin were just meant to be friends. They found they like so many of the same things, disliked similar items and they themselves are very similar.
It was almost freaky watching the two sets of cousins enjoy being together - like they had been old friends - just getting reacquainted. They could have talked for hours if time had allowed. I see a trip back to Texas in the future, if not all of us, at least the kids will go soon.
There is just something comforting about being with family. You can be yourself and relax. Family bonds are so important to our lives, friends come and go - but family is forever.
