Prior to having our own babe I labelled Paul and I as a family, a 2 unit family with the hopes of expanding one day.
Our extended family at one point in our lives focused a lot on our friends, we had some amazing friends back then. Then one day we realized that we were neglecting our blood family, that because at times situations could be awkward, conversation strained and we thought about the fun and memories that we'd make with our 'friend' family vs. the real thing. It's true what whomever says about blood being thicker then water, and that you can't choose your family....
Don't get me wrong, Monroe has some amazing honorary aunties and uncles. T&N are in charge of Monroe should anything happen to us, friends who truly would honor our decisions in the way we'd like roe to be raised and will make sure he still gets to see his family (our parents, grandparents, aunties uncles etc.). There are also those friends who we thought would always be there that are no longer in our lives, because friendships can wean and wither down to nothing (or be brought to an awkward abrupt end).
Our family is interesting and loves us like no other could. And therefore loves our offspring. We started making a much larger effort to attend functions and make sure that family comes first, even when it means driving 3 hours each way in one day, we'll do it, me a bit begrudgingly-that's what happens when you don't have a babe who excels in the car, Paul all happy and excited. We've tried, but there are times when things happen and you still wish you'd tried a little harder. My grandpa passing away suddenly and unexpectedly at 65 this past fall was a shock and made me realize how very precious life is and how much I treasured my grandpa.
So go out and love on your family this weekend, hug that awkward cousin. Engage in conversation with your grandparent even when you're not sure if they're hearing you or just nodding in agreement to what you're saying because they can't truly hear you.
lunch this past sunday with my zaidie, lori & my dad
