A special visit

The weekend after my birthday, my sisters, Susan and Sarah both flew in town to meet Wesley and have some family hang out time. Because we are all pretty spread out, there are not many times when we all get a chance to get together; normally, it corresponds with a big event (like Susan's wedding this summer). This was the first time in awhile we had a chance to all get together and just hang out, without any plans or agendas. And let me tell you, it was a sweet time. Whenever we get together, it is normally at my parent's house. This time, everyone came and stayed at my house! And though I did not get to play hostess like I normally would have, it was very special having the girls stay with me.


Right off the bat, the girls showered love and gifts on Miss Ryleigh. That girl is sure spoiled with amazing aunts! Then it was my turn. :) They surprised me with a super sentimental and thoughtful gift- the forever entwined ring from James Avery. Apparently, they all have it, and gave it to me to complete the circle. Now all of us are forever entwined. It really touched my heart.

The visit was full of chit chatting, catching up, loving on babies, and of course giggles. Julie was in school, but she joined us as she could, and we tried to meet up with her as often as she was able.
For those of you who do not have sisters- you really are missing out. I can't explain it. There is something, unspoken, that truly binds your hearts together. As we get older and our lives inevitably drift apart, it never ceases to amaze me that my love and appreciation for them as people grows. The old phrase, "distance makes the heart grow fonder," really is true! Not only do I miss them and the laughter they bring in my life, but also, when we do get together, our catch up time is sweeter and more meaningful.

Since having children, I have also seen a new dimension in my sisters: they are aunts! And boy howdy, do those girls love my babies well. It warms me to the very core to watch them interact with Ryleigh or snuggle with Wesley. I don't know if you can see Wesley's shirt...Aunt Julie gave it to him. It says, "My Aunt Rocks" with little guitars on it. Honestly, I couldn't have said it any better. Ryleigh and Wesley's aunts do rock!

I was sad to Susan and Sarah go, though I know they needed to get back home to their own families. Luckily, Julie is still close by, so we get to see her from time to time. These visits are definitely cherished in my heart and I always look to the future in anticipation of the next get-together.

I love you girls, and love the way you not only love me unconditionally, but also the way you shower love on my babies. Trust me, they feel your love, and love you right back! Lots of love going around...haha. Thank you so much for coming to visit.

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And a post on my "sisters" would not be complete without mentioning the other special visit from my honorary sister, "the older sister I never had,' my cousin Michelle. Michelle also made the trip down (in the rain!) to share my birthday with me. She also loves me unconditionally and is often the voice of reason I need to hear when I let my emotions get the best of me. I love Savannah (and soon-to-be, Austin) like my own, and I see her loving on Ryleigh and Wesley the same.

Thank you, Michelle, for coming to visit and share my birthday with me. I love you!

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Have I mentioned lately how blessed I am?

Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of the sisters in my life!