I come from a fairly large family. And we're not just large in numbers, we're also all fairly close. Close geographically and close emotionally. Both of my parents had lots of aunts and uncles and siblings and I have lots of cousins. My mom's side is the closer of the two. I credit my grandparents for this. My grandparents on my mom's side are my most favorite people in the whole world, and have been for as long as I can remember. They are both traditional and progressive thinkers, which makes them wise, insightful listeners and advice givers. I know they've been proud of me my whole life and I think about that with almost any decision I make, what would my grandparents think of this?
My grandmother made the wise decision many years ago to never compete with the growing tug of multiple families as her children married and had several places to visit on a holiday. She has maintained a Saturday Thanksgiving tradition when everyone was available knowing that it's the people that make the event, not the actual date. Wise, I told you. Last night was this Thanksgiving. I love this Thanksgiving. I love the family they have created. I think we are an interesting bunch, respectful and hard working. I think we have vastly different opinions for being raised with mostly the same values. I like watching how some of my cousins are as parents to their children. Mostly I like to watch Grandpa as he takes it all in and knows that he had something to do with this.
I didn't realize how badly I needed a dose of this family yesterday. I had a rough afternoon with big decisions and realizations on my horizon. Some things in my life are a real big mess. I was reminded yesterday though, that no matter what, this family will be there. They will still be mine. Lucky for me.
I also decided I knew exactly what I wanted for Christmas from my grandparents. I wanted a wedding picture of theirs. Not the original, but I wanted to scan one in and frame it. I left last night with a few options, and even more than I asked for, a picture of my great grandmother (grandpa's mom and dad) at her wedding.
This is my great grandparents. Check out the amazing veil/head piece my great grandmother (whom we called Muzz, though I don't know why) is wearing! I think it's incredible. They were married in 1923. Here are my grandparents on their wedding day:
These pictures make me happy.
