As long as I can remember, we have celebrated holidays (big and small), vacationed, and spent large parts of the summer with family. And by family, I mean grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins, and third cousins. I know, you're probably thinking—who in the world knows their third cousins? Well, I do, and I am thankful for it. My Mimi has been the anchor for all of us. She has always pulled us together and instilled the importance of family loyalty and commitment. She provided us with many opportunities to spend quality time with each other, and consequently, we practically grew up together. I realize that not many people can say this about their family, which is why I become more grateful with every holiday and get-together. This constant familial exposure shaped us as individuals, but it also developed the value we prescribe family. Family is significant to me because I have always had them around me. Their continuous presence has made me realize their perpetual importance, and I try to never take them for granted. I cherish every laugh and memory shared.

For instance, I remember childishly arguing with my cousin Isabelle because we were just too similar and could never decide who got to be the boss of everything (rolling my eyes right now).

I am the appalled baby on the left; Isabelle is on the right. I guess not a lot changed until we got older! Oh, no, I just recalled a doozy—our acting days. We used to film English murder mysteries. Isabelle and I were the detectives, and little Olivia (her sister) was the maiden in distress. Thanks to the wonders of a tape recorder, that ghastly footage will stand the test of time and indubitably rear its ugly head at someone's wedding (fingers crossed that it won't be mine).

And sometimes, the most random occasions and activities stick with you. I vividly remember jumping on the beds at my cousin Colton's house while eating from mini frosted flakes boxes and watching Power Rangers.

Don't worry though; we weren't jumping on the beds at this age. We took this picture in Puerto Rico when Hollister was at its peak. Colton and I have had lots of adventures together. He's a pretty swell guy, and I'm grateful to have him.

Oh. This is a good one. One Easter, we had all come back from church to find the neighborhood kids taking the eggs out of Mimi's yard. There were hardly any eggs spared from the snatchers, but we were old enough not to be devastated. However, I remember Mimi flew into a tizzy. She was not happy then, but this story makes us all smile now.

Disclaimer, this picture was not taken at the same time as the memory above. It is actually a picture of my Dad, aunts, and grandparents. I just thought the outfits and hairdos were too great not to share. However, I've been told numerous times, "That was in style then!"

Gosh, I love my family. I love that we do everything together. I love that we see each other often and not once in a blue moon. I love that I can be silly and cheesy with them. I love that we know each other well and that we play meaningful roles in each other's lives. I'm sorry to be sappy. I know that these memories hold no warmth or life for you, but nevertheless, I hope they evoke some of your own recollections. And I also hope that you get to spend some time with your own family this Easter weekend. As per usual, we will all be going to Mimi's house. I'll be sure to let you know if any eggs are missing this time around! But to set joking aside, I hope, at some point, you take a moment to be thankful for your family. Because for better or worse, they're yours through thick and thin (not excluding poorly acted murder mysteries).