It's amazing. In the midst of what most might consider a tragedy, my family is become even more awesome than I ever thought possible. And that's saying something, because we were already setting the bar pretty high with our coolness-factor.
During the past few months, several family relationships have really blossomed. Most noteably, my immediate family's relationships with our extended family. Growing up, we always lived just a little bit too far away to spend more than the major holidays with mom's family. They were mostly in Columbus and we were nearly two hours away in Centerville. Sure, two hours doesn't sound like much to you or me--but when you factor in three screaming, sleepy children, a two hour drive can last a lifetime.
Despite the distance, I'm proud to say we know all of our aunts and uncles and most of our cousins (look, we have a really big family, okay?!). I'm prouder to say that during these recent months, we've really gotten close to several family members. With Aunt Char staying with my family for a few weeks, I know my dad has really appreciated establishing an amazing friendship with her. My sister already had a very good relationship with Aunt Jeannie and her family, and know I know why why! The Seabrooks are amazing. Aunt Chris is pretty far removed (physically) living in Texas, but her emails have kept me strong and inspired. The Lakemans have been super supportive from North Carolina--even coming to visit the family in Ohio! It's so cool to see so many family members coming out of the woodwork providing emotional and physical support.
We have an awesome family. I'm so happy to be a part of it.
During the past few months, several family relationships have really blossomed. Most noteably, my immediate family's relationships with our extended family. Growing up, we always lived just a little bit too far away to spend more than the major holidays with mom's family. They were mostly in Columbus and we were nearly two hours away in Centerville. Sure, two hours doesn't sound like much to you or me--but when you factor in three screaming, sleepy children, a two hour drive can last a lifetime.
Despite the distance, I'm proud to say we know all of our aunts and uncles and most of our cousins (look, we have a really big family, okay?!). I'm prouder to say that during these recent months, we've really gotten close to several family members. With Aunt Char staying with my family for a few weeks, I know my dad has really appreciated establishing an amazing friendship with her. My sister already had a very good relationship with Aunt Jeannie and her family, and know I know why why! The Seabrooks are amazing. Aunt Chris is pretty far removed (physically) living in Texas, but her emails have kept me strong and inspired. The Lakemans have been super supportive from North Carolina--even coming to visit the family in Ohio! It's so cool to see so many family members coming out of the woodwork providing emotional and physical support.
We have an awesome family. I'm so happy to be a part of it.