COUSINS

This weekend, we had our annual fun time in Vincennes with family. Due to work schedules, we weren't able to have our 'usual' 4th of July get-together on the 4th...so we delayed it until this weekend.

Cindy's nephew, Chris, has a place in the country outside of Vincennes. Every 4th...for years...we all gather at his house for an 'all day' eat & drink fest with games for all types to be entertained...or just watch...or just soak up the sun and visit...all followed by a fireworks display that would rival many small communities.

Many of Chris's neighbors come over...along with family. I believe the count at last nights fireworks show...was 47.

Lots of drink is consumed...lots of food is consumed...but mostly...there's lots of laughs and lots of fun...had by all.

On Sunday...the family members gather for a little breakfast...share some more laughs about the events from the day before...pack up...hugs and kisses all around...and head out to go home.

There is a great relationship among us all...but a strong bond is shared by the cousins. They are now in their 20s and 30s and have grown up maintaining a great friendship. As spouses get added to the group...the loving group has gotten bigger and the spouses just fit right in perfectly...Chris, Ashley, Kelly, Bryan, Jaime, Shawn, Julie, Joni and Ryan. Then add a slew of nieces and nephews...and the group is just getting huge.

They are a large...loving...respectful...supportive group.

It is very enviable. Many families 'wish' they had as good a group of kids as these in their family. They all have a strong bond that will hopefully last the rest of their lives...and keep the family growing closer together...even over the miles that they all live apart.


Dan