Cousins

Okay are these kids cute or what? This is my niece and nephew, Joe and Grace. They are the children of my little brother Jay and his wife Linda. Jay and Linda live out of state and we don't see them nearly as much as we'd like but Annie, Lucy and Jack pray for Joe and Grace each night before bed and they tell everyone about their cousins.

I was fortunate to be able to spend a decent amount of time with my cousins growing up. I cherish the times we all spent together and we do stay in touch (more or less) as adults. Thank God for the Internet! Though we aren't in the same place geographically, it is nice to have the security of extended family. I like knowing that there are people out there who I care about and that care about me...and who share a history with me. Connectedness is very important in our development as people and I think it is highly underrated. Rather than value independence and self sufficiency so much I think that we should value dependence and togetherness. I don't believe we were created for self but rather for community.

I hope my kids get to know their cousins over the years...right now there are only two of them...but we're hoping for more! Jay and Linda and Joe and Grace are a wonderful family and we love them a lot. We hope to see you all soon and we miss you lots and lots. Hugs and kisses all around!