FRIENDS: AND FAMILY

I keep thinking of this theme of “friends”. So I looked up the meaning in my rather antiquated Webster’s – Friend, n. one attached to another by affection. Well, now that takes in a lot of people in my life. Including many who also happen to be members of my family, like my husband who probably knows me better than anyone and still sticks around.

Although our relationship has changed and evolved over the years, I can certainly say that I count my adult children, and their spouses, among my friends. We are there for each other in tough times, like times of illness; we share laughs as well as heartaches and complaints; we have wonderful conversations about topics ranging from the challenges of parenting to the war in Iraq (especially how to get out!) to the latest books we are reading. We have gone on trips together; enjoyed shows and movies together; celebrated joyful occasions together; and continue to learn from each other - although I am still waiting for one of them to show me how to put up photos on this blog. And they have given me the best gift of all – my grandchildren. Believe me, I know how blessed I am to have children who are also my friends.

Last week our family had a joyous celebration, my niece Audra’s wedding to Brian. For more on the wedding and pictures, see my daughter’s blog (link on sidebar). Many family members I had not seen for quite some time were there and it was wonderful to catch up, to hang out, and to remember old times and all that we shared – and still share.

But I have to say a special word about the mother of the bride, my sister Kathy, a true friend, perhaps my oldest friend, and one who grows dearer as the years go by. Kathy is the “glue” that keeps our family together, a one woman network who keeps “in touch” with family far away, to keep us all up to date on the latest family news. I have called Kathy “terminally generous”, and anyone who knows her will agree. For instance, not only did she gather and help make arrangements for all the out of town guests to the wedding, she prepared welcome baskets for them complete with home baked Aunt Kate cookies (that’s another blog), Yankee caps, and lists of places to explore on Long Island! She is amazing, such energy, always doing something, always busy, always welcoming. And still has time to read! Can we really be related! Seriously, I am one lucky woman to have such a sister, such a friend, such a great family.