Dear Modern, Busy People: Bring Back Family Gatherings
There has been a death. The death of the family gathering . . . As a youngster, I have vivid memories of being around my extended family. It was so…
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extended family
The Truth is Not All Siblings Grow Up To Be Friends
I’m sure you’ve read the articles—or at least seen the headlines as you scroll. Siblings share a bond for life. Siblings are built-in best…
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Here’s To the Aunts Who Make Our Lives Better
“I’m number 1.” “I’m number 2.” “I’m number 8, but really I’m number one of them all.” Proudly, and with raucous laughter on the…
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Dear Uninvolved Family, I’m Sad You Don’t Care Enough to Know Us
A letter to my family who isn’t interested in our son: Today I sent you pictures and recapped our fun-filled, toddler adventures over the last few…
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So God Made My Father-in-Law
God looked down and thought, “I need someone who is willing . . . willing to provide the fatherly love, support, and strength this woman so…
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We Don’t Take Thanksgiving—Or Mom—For Granted Anymore
Five days after my mom’s chemo, my brother, Deno, flew home to Michigan. We were going to celebrate an early Thanksgiving with all three of my…
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So God Made an Aunt
And on the eighth day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, “I need a very special person in these youngsters’ lives.“ So…
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This Time With Grandparents is So Precious
It’s hard to believe we’re approaching the 15th anniversary of my grandfather’s passing. My grandfather–affectionately known as “Pa…
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Growing Up With Cousins is Growing Up With Friends For Life
I grew up surrounded by my cousins. I have a ton of them—I have 30+ just on one side. So there were always kids of every age around, and there was…
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My Kids May Never Meet You, But I Promise They Will Know You
There is a picture of you getting ready to go to your senior prom and holding me as a baby. You were all dressed in your tux and I was about four…
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