Have I ever told you about my Grandmother? (that is her holding Judson when he was a baby) She died less than 2 years ago at the age of 95. What a wonderful legacy she left our family. She always made it clear how important family was. To that end, there was never a time when we were made to feel we were not welcome at her house. Whether she was entertaining or feeling bad, if we showed up, we were LOVED. Luckily when we were young, we lived close by along with my aunts, uncles, and cousins. We gathered at her house for Sunday dinner, birthday celebrations, and holidays. You never wanted to miss the gatherings. One, because you'd miss the food, fun, and festivities. Two, she might heap a good portion of guilt upon you. Because of this legacy, I have grown up to be very close to all my extended family. (as well as my immediate family) I KNOW I can count upon them anytime and they can count on me. So, we are planning a family gathering in Gatlinburg over Memorial Day. This is not our first endeavor but by far the largest coordinated adventure. We are celebrating my nephew's graduation. (Way to go Mack!) There will be my sister and her family, my brother and his family, my mom, aunt, and lots of cousins. I count it as a great blessing to have a Grandmother who taught me the importance of family.
