The camel ride was also pretty exciting:
Doesn't Alice look lovely and gentle? (OK...I don't actually know the camel's name, but why would you name a camel anything other than Alice?).
That lovely young lady in the pictures (no...not Alice the camel - the human one), is my cousin's daughter and Evan took a total shine to her. Notice how he wouldn't let go of her hand - not even in the safari truck! That is devotion. He was pretty smitten (and cute!). I was worried that it might be too much for a 10-year old girl, but she was lovely with him. Thanks Alexandra!
We stayed at my aunt and uncle's house (where we were married!). They have a lovely house that backs onto a small forest and stream. So very relaxing. On Friday night my aunt and I sat outside by a fire (with a lovely glass of wine) while my uncle and husband admired the largest TV that I have ever seen.
I don't know how to put this (it will possibly sound very hokey)...We don't have any family in our adopted home town. Much of the time this is just fine. We have built a close community with dear friends who serve as family. We are happy. But - there is something so easy and peaceful about passing time with your family. People who know your history...maybe this means that they "get" you in a way that others can't access? Maybe the pressure is off because they HAVE to love you?? I don't really know, but there is something very easy and centering about spending time with family. (Told you it would sound hokey.)
Back into the real world routine (at top speed). I'll post about my fun flea market finds in my next post.
My feelings on family is that they're so nice to visit . . but sometimes living so near makes the times less 'holiday'ish and more 'everyday'ish . . I love seeing my kids with family - that matters more than how i could ever feel . nice that E and his cousin got on so well. I personally think that friens can totally be the family you choose, and I like having the choice . . I've picked some pretty good ones! ;)
ReplyDeleteI completely know what you mean about the family thing. We have experienced both. Being away was hard at first, but we adapted and were happy starting our family. Now it's nice to be back with parents and siblings. My children are grown now, and I would be sad if either of them moved far away, but I know I would adapt....and be happy.
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