Family
The word family evokes images of gathering around the table for a meal or heading off in the same vehicle for a vacation. Of course, family also means standing by each other in times of turmoil or standing up for each other when under attack. And it means celebrating a life together.
Having my mother living close by is a blessing. This week we had another blessing. Allison, the oldest daughter of our clan and her son, the oldest grandson of our clan came for a short visit. They had been vacationing in South Carolina. While Allison’s husband and younger son headed back to Ohio, Allison and Joshua headed our way. What a treat!
They arrived on Saturday and left in the early hours Tuesday morning. Although their visit was short, it was a blessing to all of us.
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My mom, GG, Braided Allison's hair Just as she did when Allison was a Little Girl! |
Mike took us on a long boat ride. We explored our lake and adjoining lakes. We took pictures and showed Allison and Joshua the route we take on the water to go to my mother’s house when we pick her up for dinner via boat.
Our Boat House |
The weather was perfect for their visit.
One day, we drove to Rainbow River and poked around the crystal-clear tributary. Allison enjoyed sharing stories of her experiences there when she and her sisters would spend weeks during the summer with my mom and dad.
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Oldest Grandson, Joshua, Getting up the nerve to go "all in" Into the Ice cold water of Rainbow River |
But the best parts of the visit were the sharing of meals, going to church together, and sweet conversations. Mike’s son, Shawn (I claim him, too!) stopped in for a visit. I had three girls so having a brother is pretty cool for all of them.
Family.
The make-up of our family may have changed since Mike and I married, but the essence of what a family means is still there. Together we celebrate the gift of life together and the gift of love God has given us to share with one another.
I am one blessed woman. And I know it.
One last picture...The finished product: