It's all about LOVE...

Some 50+ years married loveLast weekend I traveled with my aunt and uncle, Ray and Joy. It was a long trip 9-10 hours each way leaves a lot of talking time. I've always had a soft spot for my favorite Aunt and uncle, but this trip reminded me why. They have been married for over a half century. My aunt Joy has needed supplemental oxygen for the last 3 years. Ray teared up remembering how he almost lost her, he was quick and dedicated to make sure her needs were always taken care of. They like to joke together. He says, "If you don't wear your oxygen don't come running to me for help. But he was quick to add, DO send someone else." They know life is precious and fleeting, they are making the most of it. Joy still laughs at Ray's corny jokes. I do too. She matter of factly explains that she is a fast eater and he is slow. In their early days she might have cleared the table before he was done eating, they recognize their differences and embrace them. As we talked Joy mentioned they had never been a walk close together, hold hands kind of couple, but the rear view mirror seemed to sum it up. Objects in mirror are closer than they appear. They for sure are.

Grandma Love

Nothing quite like holding your granddaughter for the first time. I know Joy has waited a long time for this opportunity and frankly I teared up watching them.

Granddaughter Love

This picture says it all though. Baby Amelia loves her grandmother too.

Grandpa Love

Ray was not shy to hold the little one. I'm not sure, but he may have been singing one of his famous songs. One that probably made Amelia's mother roll her eyes. It made me smile.

Little Boy Love

A good friend Carol and her son Andrew came along as well. Carol helped me drive and Andrew entertained us. Their love touched me as well. Carol, is a mother to emulate. She is kind, patient, full of listening, inventive, firm, supportive, and many more things. I really loved watching them interact. Here they are counting up how many red cars we passed on the way down. Tip to the wise...Unless you want to go broke, go with yellow cars!

First Time Mommy Love

It was a real treat to see my cousin Sharon in action as a Mom for the first time. She has embraced all the ins and outs of motherhood and does an excellent job. This picture evokes the emotion of motherhood for me.

First Time Daddy Love

Sometimes Dad's are unsure as how to jump into the parenting process. Not so with Ken. He is a champion Dad, has the rocking and shushing routine down pat. He will be an excellent guide for Amelia.

Happy Family Love

What more could a baby ask for but two attentive, loving, dedicated parents. Yep, she's one lucky girl and you know what? I think she knows it.

I'm one lucky girl too. Left home to their own devices, my family managed to not only survive but thrive. Emily had the kids up and ready for school on time, Mike took off work to have a Dad day with Ethan, food, clothing, baths were executed. The house was cleaned up for my arrival home and I was greeted with these timeless Mother's day cards.