Tuesday

Cousins

It's interesting to me how a funeral of a loved one can cause good things.  My cousin Mike passed away Oct 13 and my cousin Kay called my mom to let her know.  While we were talking to her I told her that my daddy (her uncle) would be joining Mike soon. (he did 3 days later)  Kay told me that she was on Face Book along with some other cousins.  I was able to find Wendy and through her find others including Kay.  Many of my cousins came to my dads funeral...in fact I saw all that are living that week.  Jennifer left before the funeral but stopped by my mom's to visit with us.  It is great reconnecting at this point in our lives.

I made a special group called "Cousins" on Facebook so that we can stay connected and share with each other.  Kristy told me at the funeral that we needed to get together.  I have learned that saying it just isn't enough and so I started the group and threw out a date.

Today a few of us cousins went to lunch.  Starting on the left is Lana, Kristy (Aunt Cleo's daughter), my mom, Linda, Julie, Karen (Aunt Cleo's daughter), me, my sister Susan, and Wendy. (Aunt Venyle's daughter and Mikes sister)  Lana and Linda are sisters and they are Julies cousins.  We are distant cousins and always saw them at the reunions when we had reunions.  It was really wonderful getting together and seeing everyone and being able to visit.  We noticed everyone is shrinking and getting shorter. ☺

Karen noticed that a few of us have similar smiles and chins. Karen also mentioned that she just found out a few years ago that Susan and I aren't twins.  Another cousin, Mindy, who wasn't able to make it mentioned that our Mothers would be so happy.  I hadn't thought about that but when she said it I knew it was true.  My dad and his sisters are all together and I am positive they are happy that we made time to get together and get reacquainted with each other.

I am happy that my mom is still here and was able to come and enjoy her nieces that I know she loves so much.  I have a deep love for families. I am thankful for my cousins and the great ladies they are.  I'm glad we are all pieced together.

(I called my mom's brothers a few years ago and reconnected with them after a very long time...maybe 30+ years....I just think families should know each other)