relatives

when i was young my family moved from the safety of living among extended family in idaho to the green lush hills of pennsylvania. while it was beautiful and wonderful to set out on this new adventure and we met new friends who became very close to us - there were no cousins, aunts and uncles nearby nor sisters or brother for my mom to see on a daily basis. as an immediate family unit it was good for us because we became closer. we had to rely on each other to be friend as well as sibling. but each summer i looked forward to the time we would load up the station wagon and head west. i could hardly wait to get to idaho, even though the trip along the way was a cherished adventure unto itself. at the end of the road were the open arms of my sister sherry, who stayed behind to attend college, as well as loving aunts and uncles and lots and lots of cousins. cori describes these adventures best and our journeys are immortalized in her song pontiac rocket. (here's a link to her blog.)

as a young girl one of my favorite spots to stay was in ucon, idaho. this was home to the miskin's. aunt becky, uncle richard, deann, gail, jane, mary lou, michelle, mark, david, gina, ruby, phoebe, etc., and to that our clan and well, there was a houseful. When i grew up i dreamed of being just like aunt becky and welcome, with open arms, anyone who would come to visit. several years ago, auntie becky found a book and gave it to us. the "relatives came", (written by cynthia ryland and illustrated by stephen gammell) pretty much describes our family.

early this morning as i sat in the quiet of my family room, i could hear the sleeping sounds of many people. it was a glorious sound. this past weekend both connors and our house were full with family and friends. we planned on 40 some for Easter dinner, and that did not include everyone who should have been here. sunday was noisy and chaotic and absolutely wonderful. how lucky i am to have loved ones come and gather. my dream has come true. thank you!