When I was younger, I always wanted a bigger family. I wanted more siblings than my one younger brother. It wasn't until much later in life that I realized I come from a HUGE family. I don't think this occurred to me because it was so normal to have a big extended family. And I was only around my extended family a couple times a year.
My dad had eight siblings. While not all lived into adulthood or married and had children, my dad's side of the family is quite large. We segment the offspring by grandchildren (which I am a member of), great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Adding in the in-laws, this side of the family easily numbers over 100, stemming from my grandparents.
My mom's side of the family is not nearly that large. I have 5 cousins. But almost all have married and have kids of their own. I see and interact with this side of the family more frequently than my dad's side.
The great things about cousins, if you are lucky, is that they become friends. They aren't people you only see at weddings and funerals or only hear from at the holidays or keep up-to-date on their lives through your parents. But since they are family they understand and deal with all the quirks that make us who we are and don't hold those things against us.
My mom's side of the family is not nearly that large. I have 5 cousins. But almost all have married and have kids of their own. I see and interact with this side of the family more frequently than my dad's side.
The great things about cousins, if you are lucky, is that they become friends. They aren't people you only see at weddings and funerals or only hear from at the holidays or keep up-to-date on their lives through your parents. But since they are family they understand and deal with all the quirks that make us who we are and don't hold those things against us.
Well...today is my cousin Robin's birthday! And it is a milestone birthday, but I won't say what it is. :) She lives in North Carolina and I don't get to see her too often, but I appreciate and love the person that she is. I am blessed to have her in my life!
Happy Birthday, Robin! I wish I could be there to celebrate with you!
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