be a better sister and keep in touch

What started out as a birthday “camping” trip in November is becoming a family tradition this year. We usually rent a cabin up in the mountains for my daughter and she always wants to invite a lot of people, again this year we are making it a family thing and inviting all of my brothers and sisters and their kids. I’m not sure who will make it but at least they know I’m thinking of them and want to spend time with them.

I’ve started texting my brothers when I have not much to say. I think they like it, they always respond.

Emailed all the brothers and sisters-in-law tonight…short but sweet, gotta start somewhere.

Last weekend I had dinner with my Dad, Step-Mom, sister, brothers and all their families. On my birthday, while the hubby was out of town, I went snowboarding with my sister-in-law. Then I went to my Mom’s house and had dinner with 2 of my brothers and our families, and finally went home for cake and ice cream with my husband’s family. It was a whirlwind but so much fun!

I spent the day with my Dad and Stepmom, and my Stepbrother and his girlfriend. I tried getting in touch with my other brothers while I was in town, but they were all gone. It was a beautiful day and nice to spend it with people I care about. We just sat outside and hung out while the kids all played. It may not have been the most exciting…but I know that it’s the kind of day that everyone will remember, the calm and happy comfort of family.

My brother and sister-in-law came up this weekend. It was such a nice visit and my little nephew is getting so big! He’s six months now and absolutely cuddly! He’s like a big teddy bear. We’re all going to spend Easter at my Dad’s house…I love now that I’m not the only one with kids we’re doing more (a little more anyway) things as one big family, and DH didn’t even complain!

I know he could use it so rather than sell it we’re going to give it to him. Sometimes I feel like I’m trying to buy their love. I’m not, but it just happens that I always have stuff for them when I see them, mostly because I’m always thinking of them and don’t always follow through often enough to give them the stuff I pick up here and there!

My birthday dinner was perfect! My sister had to work (but she sent my little nephew with my Dad and Stepmom) and one brother had to work late and couldn’t make it (though his wife and my nephew came) and then obviously my Marine couldn’t come home, but everyone else was there! I had my parents, my brothers and their families, one of my best friends and her family, and of course my family (the world’s greatest kids…LOL). It was huge and I loved it, I don’t think I’ve ever felt more loved =D . We don’t get together often, but when we do I always leave wondering why we don’t do it more because we all have such a good time!

I called all my brothers to make sure they knew I wanted them to come to dinner for my birthday tomorrow, and it looks like those who are around will make it…even my Dad (who never leaves town for anything!). YAY…I can’t wait!

I always complain that they never call me or do anything with me or come visit me, but I’m almost as bad! I love my little brothers (and stepbrothers, stepsisters, sister-in-law, etc.) so much and I should make sure they know just how important they and their families are to me. Most of them are only an hour away right now and I see them every few months, I’m scared to think about what will happen if I’m in Minnesota. Note to self: Call the boys tomorrow!