Traveling back from Oklahoma City yesterday, I thought about the joy of belonging to someone because of our mutual heritage.  As we share our stories over the years, friendships are cemented and we can jump back into the present and revive memories of times spent together. 

        Uncle Dave and Aunt Marilyn flew in from Florida.  Here we are at The Spaghetti Factory.  

 My cousin Nancy stands with her beautiful daughter Megan, the bride. 

Aunt Anita and Sophie, the bulldog with slobbery kisses. 

What does it take to be family?  Mutual love, an interest in each other’s lives, and sharing the joys and sadnesses that accompany them.  If you’ve got family, then celebrate them!  Affirm, nurture and cherish each one.  If you don’t, why not adopt someone?  Invite a senior citizen to play checkers, or a new mom to go to the playground.  Invite a toddler to look for toads, or a teen to the Saturday matinee.  Make an investment in their lives and watch them bloom! 

 Roy’s parents came to surprise our kids when they were in the Wizard of Oz!  

Galatians 6:10 (NIV) 

    Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.  

Sally