Family blessings

There's something about family that is just hard to explain.  The inward bond of love that cannot be written in words.  The precious memories created that only those involved will ever understand.  The blessing given to us by our loving heavenly Father that cannot be replaced. And while this is very true for my immediate family, it goes beyond them. My extended family.  My church family.  My family of friends.  The opportunities available to spend time with my families are bittersweet.  The days and weeks before, are spent in anticipaiton of being together.  The time together is spent making memories, cherishing moments, and creating lasting ties.  But when the time comes to part, it's hard to let go.  The only thing that allows the goodbyes to be bearable, is the hope that we have to see eachother again.  If not in this world, then in the world to come. 

While this may sound sappy, it's true.  I love my families.  And I'm so thankful to my God who has given me these awesome blessings in my life to cherish. 

As you probably have guessed, I had a reason to write this post, and yes, it involves family!  This past weekend, Mom, Dad, Jesse, and I spent our first part of our vacation out East with my relatives from Rockville.  It was a blessing.  Many of them I haven't really spent much time with for at least 5 years, and let me tell you that 5 years changes ALOT!  At least for me at my age.  There's something about being 14 and being 19 when it comes to spending time with extended family.  I think I enjoyed it a whole lot better at 19 and I saw the blessing in it. 

So here's a snipet of our time together!

Our home by the ocean for 2 nights

Volleyball games

walks...I took pictures...

eating out at a seafood restaruant.

I felt brave and tried lobster...it was...interesting!

Saturday morning we all got up before 5 to go deep sea fishing.

It was an experience but I had fun!  We were all a little sore the next few days.
I know...that sounds wimpy, but those fish were HUGE! (well depends whose reading this...!)

Jesse, his fish, and the 1st mate...

Joanna and I after the advetenture...we both caught 5 each!

Eating the fish that we caught that day.  It was delicious!

Sunday night we were invited to the lake with several other families.

Some went skiing, others pontooned around the lake taking in the sights.

chillin' w/ my cuz's

Me, Josie, Joanna, and Taylor.
3 wonderful ladies and friends.

 So many memories.  Soo much hospitality and love was shown to us.  We are soo blessed.  Looking forward to my next trip out east!! Anyone's welcome!

More vacation posts to come...