When we were kids, it was easy to overcome the initial shyness when seeing cousins at the bi-annual family reunions. Once somebody called out a capture the flag game or laid out the beautiful materials to make dream catchers (still one of my most vivid memories - thanks Valerie!), we ran off, remembering why we were friends . . . because we were family.
Now that we're older, possibly even with kids of our own who can toss their own frisbees, we are more reserved, trying to start up conversations with each other based on what we remember from last year. Your kids are so tall! Wow, can I hold the baby? Are you still working at that job? Oh, you guys broke up . . . ? So update me on your year!
As for me, I often found myself debating whether being family would mean that it would be less socially awkward to mention that I occasionally stalk you. Your facebook. Your blog (why haven't you updated recently??). Your side photography/ etsy/ homeschool kindergarten gigs. Your kids' "firsts." Your own latest.
And I have also noticed the occasional comment from a cousin/ aunt on my own blog. Or consistently enthusiastic "likes" on facebook.
So here's to owning up to the fact that we want to stay updated on each others' lives and that we care about those picnics, milestones and the bajillionth photo of your kids. And while we're at it, let's make it even more accessible to catch up on Messick family news all in one place.
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