Day 11 - Extended Family

I am blessed to have some wonderful siblings who brought beautiful people into my life.  I adore my nieces and nephews and wish they lived closer.  I treasure the times we get to spend together which are few and far between these days.  Everyone is very busy with their own children and lives that it leaves little time and money for vacations.

 Weddings seem to be the times when we get to see one another the most.  Alex and Cate in Nauvoo was just last year and it was great.  It gave us a chance to have a family vacation.

 When Mike and Becca married, we had a dance at Pine Hills.  It was so much fun.  Especially for the children.  We were able to be in Salt Lake with them for their marriage and also able to see some of our western family in the process.

 Two goofy guys.

 A family reunion happened three years ago.  I was very glad we did this since it would be the last time we would be together with our Papa still here on earth.  Cousin time is precious when it happens so little.

Everyone wasn't able to be in attendance.  But many were and it was wonderful!

 It's a shame when I don't know these children anymore and they don't know me.  I guess as long as they know their Papa and cousins, that's all that's really important.

 Pat and I have become much closer since our Dad's passing.  He makes me laugh and I enjoy that.

 This beauty is now married and expecting her first child in a few weeks.  I'm glad she stayed in the area.  

 A trip to Idaho Falls for this bride.

 Dancing in the style of our family/community to Wipe Out!

Wherever we are and whatever our circumstance may be, I'm thankful to be linked to these beautiful family members that I call mine.  Distance may keep us apart but love knits our hearts together and temple ordinances bind us forever.

I am thankful for extended family!