Extended Family Love
When you look at your life, the greatest happinesses are family happinesses. ~Joyce Brothers
April 2014 was another great month, Dad went on a work trip (missed the family like mad), Evan had his first Easter,
This month I really tuned in to how much our extended family plays a role in our life, they really help shape us into the people we are, even those far away, still have a lasting impact in our hearts. We all 5 of us (don't forget Hercules) are beyond blessed, more like privileged to have the Family network that we do, they are all so full of love, understanding, support and compassion I couldn't ask for anything more.
Grandma Terri, My Mom, is perfect; I have learned so much from her about perseverance, compassion and Love. Shes one tough cookie too, life has thrown her some real curve balls but she never stopped never quit never felt sorry for herself, she pressed on and even helped others on her way. That's where I learned it from my mom, help others, be a good friend, be a good partner no matter what and most importantly treat other people how you want to be treated. That's when she was just Mom now shes Grandma Terri :) and I'm learning being silly is not only ok, it's the way to go! Purple hair, cheetah print, and a dog named Sassee that's my mom, forever young at heart, I hope I am always like that too. Madeline loves her so much, loves the packages she sends, talking to her on the phone and hearing my stores of Grandma Terri. I want our kids to spend more time with her and Grandpa Monte, to learn about life through the Montana lens, we will have to start making trips to Montana once a year (fingers crossed) to see them and the rest of my side of the family.
Uncle Eric probably the 2nd most influential/important person in Madeline's life that she has never met. At 4 years old Madeline has announced that she will name her first boy Eric, after Uncle Eric. That got me thinking, where did she come up with that? I can only assume its because Brenda and I named Evan after Bapa General and Papa Ron and she can tell the complete adoration and respect I have for my little brother. I look at our son as he grows and can see my little brother with Evan's blonde hair and blue eyes he certainly looks like his uncle. My little brother, my best friend, my fellow daddy, Marine Veteran, fitness buff, and good hearted Man. I miss him and cant wait to see him and Harper May this summer.
Cousins Harper in Maddie's old hat
Harper May Hill the 1st most influential/important person in Madeline's life that she has never met. Madeline talks about her all the time and seems to always keep her in the back of her mind, I love that about Maddie shes such a lover. I cannot wait for her to meet Cousin Harper, I have a feeling those girls with be best friends and over the years will be pen pals, and always talk and rely on each other. Cousins are the BEST I still remember all the fun Eric and I had with Cousins Josh and Jared.