Good food and conversation

I just returned from dinner with my cousin, Beth. There is nothing better than catching up with someone and enjoying a good meal.

Growing up, Beth and her siblings, Paige and Buck, always seemed perfect to me. They were older than me and had such an exciting life. They lived in a huge house, had parents that got along, and, most importantly, had each other. I wanted to hang out with them and be in their lives, but I was always the little one... they had things to do and places to go, so I just got to watch from the outside.

One of my favorite memories with that clan is walking through their neighborhood at Christmas time and singing carols. They taught me a funny version of Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer that I have since taught my kids. They meant the world to me, and I don't think they ever knew it.

Over the past few weeks I have come to the realization that I am a lot like Beth. We are both creative, funny, and love to blog. I never in a million years would have thought we would be such kindred spirits... we have grown increasingly closer and I am loving every minute of it.

Our dads, who were brothers, lost touch many years ago and only got back together when Beth's beloved OM got sick. I would like to think that his illness brought us together again to carry on the family. Heck, someone has to bring this group of crazy folks back together! My dad, uncle and aunt sure can't do it alone! Beth and I are stepping up to the plate.

Beth and I are now planning on getting together once a month for dinner. I hope to include other members of our family, but for now I want to be selfish. I want to learn who Beth is and who she was all those years ago when I adored her and her family. I still adore them all, but now I am blessed to be apart of their lives and I can't wait!