Quality Cuz Time

Everytime we come back from a trip with family, I find myself feeling a bit warm and fuzzy. Even though we're tired and are always on the go, its for good reason: There are a lot of people we love to see and spend time with. And, we're fortunate that so many of our family members are within driving distance.

I especially love watching Jack interact with his cousins, Calvin and Cameron. They couldn't be better with him-- and sitting on the sidelines as they candidly interact is priceless. Cameron and Calvin look out for him, laugh with him, and play around with him. It is such a sweet thing to witness. As we drive home from a weekend with them, like we did today, I get that warm fuzzy feeling. I'm so thankful that my brother and Collette moved their family back to Columbus. We spend more time with them in a month than we would be able to in a year when they were living far away. Now that we have Jack, it means even more to us. Kevin and Collette are so involved in Jack's world as his Godparents. And we're able to do more with our Goddaughter, Cameron, as well.

Its special "Cuz-Time" like we had this weekend while in Maryland that puts so much into perspective. From Cameron drawing with Jack to Calvin spiking Jack's hair with mousse so they could look alike....they play big roles in eachother's lives.

We were in Maryland this weekend for my cousin, David (DP)'s wedding. It was a beautiful ceremony and a really fun reception. One of the readings was "Advice from a Tree"-- and it truly hits home, so I thought I'd share it here. These are good things to remember:

Advice from a Tree
By Ilan Shamir

Dear Friend,

Stand Tall and Proud
Sink your roots deeply into the Earth
Reflect the light of a greater source
Think long term
Go out on a limb
Remember your place among all living beings
Embrace with joy the changing seasons
For each yields its own abundance
The Energy and Birth of Spring
The Growth and Contentment of Summer
The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall
The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter

Feel the wind and the sun
And delight in their presence
Look up at the moon that shines down upon you
And the mystery of the stars at night.
Seek nourishment from the good things in life
Simple pleasures
Earth, fresh air, light

Be content with your natural beauty
Drink plenty of water
Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes
Be flexible
Remember your roots

Enjoy the view!


We're blessed with great immediate and extended family. We love that Jack is forming a special relationship with his generation of family, among such a great extended family. Its a great family tree-- that we love to see continue to grow.