Family and Friends

These last two days have been full of family and friends. First of all, Valary is home. That's always a special time. I love having her home and getting to spend time with her. Yesterday, Christmas Day, we went to Greenfield to a niece's house. I don't know how many people were there--I never counted--but there was a house full. Kathryn, the niece, has a heart as big as the world. I don't think she has ever met a stranger and she's always bringing home someone--or some thing (animal) that needs some TLC. I really admire that in her. I hadn't ever given much thought to it until yesterday. As I watched her greet people and introduce everyone it made me realize how big her heart is. Way to go, Kathryn. I love Charles' family. I always have a good time when I'm around them. But it makes me realize how much I miss my side of the family. All I have left are my two brothers and my mom's sister. Both of my brothers live in the KC area and we just don't get together. I do visit with my aunt once in a while, usually over the phone. I'm taking her to lunch one day next week.

Today, we had a special surprise when my nephew, Jackson, and his family stopped by for a visit. They were on their way home to KS but took the time to drop by. His two boys, aged 2 and 4, were a hoot. They kept us in stitches while they were here. I'm so glad that we had the opportunity to see them. This evening, our friends the Boulings came for supper. I did get the house cleaned! We had an evening of fun and laughter. This is a three generational friendship. The Boulings lived down the road from us when we were small. They would take care of us when mom needed someone to watch us. We have a lot of good memories from those times. Lois's mom, Elaine, and my mom were good friends. Lois and I are good friends and our daughters are good friends. This is a special family! Elaine was Valary's babysitter before she was old enough for school. We all have a good time together. In fact, Lois and I are taking our yearly after Christmas shopping trip to Branson on Monday. It just wouldn't be Christmas break without this trip! We've been doing it for several years.

Family and Friends. How special they are!