Some families have problems. I often hear people talking about that one uncle nobody talks to or the sister that just left without explanation. I hear families bad mouth each other or be okay with letting a family member down. When I hear stories like this, I feel a whirlwind of emotions. First, I feel regret for those families, but then I feel so thankful to not be in that situation. Why? Because my family is freaking incredible.
I think our bond is so special between all of us because of all we have been through; both good and bad. I know people go through things, but sometimes it feels like our family can't catch a break. When a family is so close, it makes a loss that much harder. Our family is so strong and I am so proud of us for that. I have leaned on each and every one of your shoulders to cry on and for that I can't thank you enough.
Also, we support one another. You better believe my cousins and I have the biggest and loudest cheering section of all at any event whether it is an athletic game, musical event, or even graduation. I love knowing my family cares. Many have seen my successes and failures, but I know I will always receive a "great job, we are so proud of you" with a big hug after.
Not only do we support each other, but we listen to each other. I know I always have someone to talk to, I even have someone to text me each morning before I head to class. I love getting Snapchats or texts, or even tags on Facebook from my family members knowing they were thinking about me that day. Something so little can honestly mean so much. Thanks for always letting me vent or calling to talk about my day. Being away sucks because I can't see my family as much, but luckily cell phones make it easy to keep in touch!
Finally, I love how different we are from one another. All of my cousins are involved in different activities. To name a few, I have cousins in 4-H, golf, wrestling, musical, soccer, CHAARG, and softball. We all love different things, but it allows us to find new things to talk about. I love going to Christmases or other holiday get togethers and learning about the upcoming season or talking about practices and recitals.
I know I am partial, but I can confidently say that I have the BEST parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. I am so thankful for each and every one of you. I don't know how I would make it through life without our inside jokes, our family get togethers, or the hilarious (and sometimes frightening) memories together. You have each played a major part in my life and I am so glad to be stuck with you.
