I just spent the last couple days with my three youngest nieces and nephews … I’d forgotten how fun (and loud) that can be. From the moment I woke up to the moment I went to sleep, they were there. I even had one of them in my bed with me, so there was no escape. The other two made up makeshift beds on my bedroom floor and slept there, even though there was an empty spare bedroom in the house.
We watched movies, played outside, went shopping, ate at Sonic, and made breakfast together. I have to admit that I hadn’t realized how much I missed hanging out with them, and it made me realize once again just how much of their young lives I was missing while living abroad.
I also have had the chance to hang out with my parents quite a bit since being home. It’s been cool, hearing their stories and laughter. I’ve spent many a night on the carpet in my parent’s bedroom, watching movies that they’ve recorded from DSTV and laughing … and last night I was even watching the Gaither Christmas special with my mom. I know, I know … but I like the music!
It’s so strange to have the realization hit that there may come a day when any or possibly all of these people may not be here with me. My parents will eventually pass away. Accidents and illnesses happen, so I can never rule out something happening to my nieces and nephews. It helps me realize that I need to make the most of every moment I have with them, even when they’re kneeing me in the back while we’re sleeping or whining about wanting something to drink while in a mall full of people Christmas shopping.
As I sit watching Alex shovel mac’n’cheese into his little mouth, I have to admit that I love them even more now that I’ve been away and come back. His favorite place to sit at the table is still on my lap. While we’re watching tv, he still has wedge himself in between me and the chair arm. Olivia still comes and gives me lingering hugs. Josh still tells me the longest stories about school and football.
Everyone’s changed, but we’re all still the same. Family.
