COUSINS

Christmas this year was spent with my entire extended family at my parents' house. This doesn't happen on a real regular basis, and it won't be this way again for quite some time. So, we are grateful that everyone came this year. While it can be hard for me in some ways (I get overwhelmed in a crowd), one of the great things about our whole family getting together is seeing the cousins building relationships. I think I got a picture of all the cousins with our kids except Calvin! We'll have to try for one with him next time. Our kids love their cousins, and if you can't tell by the pictures, it's because they are so great with the little ones. The older ones are great role models and the younger ones provide hours and hours of play. We only wish we could see them more! I know that many who read this blog already know these kids. However, I thought it would be fun to introduce the cousins to you.

Here we have Abby, who is just 6 months younger than Mali. So, she has been Mali's playmate from birth on, and is quickly becoming someone for Greta to look up to. Abby is spunky and so much her own person!




Andy has a very gentle way with little ones, especially the babies. He has always been sweet to our girls, and seems to love baby Quinn.



We all got to know Felix a little better this time. He is just a few weeks younger than Greta. They had their 3-year-old sharing struggles, but it was so fun to see them at this stage together. Felix seemed to enjoy playing with Mali and took an interest in Quinn right at the end of our time together. Once when Quinn was crying and no one seemed to be responding to him right away (3rd child syndrome?) I heard Felix's sweet voice saying, "He's crying. He's crying." We also enjoyed getting to know his big brother, Calvin (who I don't have a picture of). Calvin is quite entertaining to Mali. She will watch him and giggle for long stretches of time.



Then there's Hannah, the oldest of the cousins who sets such a great example for them all. She's a great kid, and I'm sure she will change the world someday!




Lydia loves babies, too. She held Quinn a lot, and was so good with him. She has a very dear heart. I see Mali in her more and more (not is appearance, but in personality).



Sara is another one of the "big" cousins who does so very well with the little ones. Our kids absolutely adore Sara. She is funny and so very loving.



And here they all are (except for Felix, who didn't want his picture taken).