COUSINS

I have an older sister (by two years), actually my only sibling, who lives in Hawaii with her husband and three boys, ages 13, 12, & 4 1/2. We have always been close, and she is actually the one who led me to the Lord in 2000. Even when she moved to Hawaii 15+ years ago, we still remained in close contact. We both started to have kids around the same time too (not planned, of course..lol). Our two oldest boys are only one year apart, there's a six month difference between our second kids, and her little boy is a few months younger than my little girl! They come to visit at least once a year (sometimes two) because her husband's family also live in California. In 2001, we lived in Hawaii for almost a year, and I think that's what really solidified our relationship. I was a new Christian, and that made us bond even more!! You know what I mean, it's that "natural" bond you have when you meet another believer! It's such a blessing to have a sister (or even a brother) who share the same faith, beliefs, and ways of raising a family. We know we can come to each other for advice with our families, and it won't be "worldly", but sound, biblical encouragement! Her older boys and my two older children are two (or should I say four) peas in a pod!! I LOVE the relationship they have with each other. They are all alike in so many ways, and just enjoy being together so much! It's funny to watch their interactions with each other. Not only do they have fun, but they are also respectful to each other. They are here visiting right now. They are renting a house down south for a month and a half so they can visit with her in-laws who live there, and for us who live in Northern Cali. She homeschools too, so she doesn't have to worry about schedules..praise the Lord! Last week they were in So Cal, and this week they are here. They're staying with my mom, but her boys are going to spend the night here for the next few days. My kids have been asking over and over, "When are they going to be here?" I told them that they were probably freezing, and that they'll get here when they're ready..lol. We did see them Monday night for a few hours, but of course, that wasn't enough! They could literally be around each other 24/7! I just pray that their relationships continue to grow with each other and in the Lord, and that they will always cherish each other like I do my sister!!

One of my favorite pictures of the "fab four!" My sister took this in 1999. My two kids are the ones in the middle. They were all 3 & 4 years old at the time!!

Present-December 1, 2008. This was taken at my mom's a couple of days ago. Can you tell who is who now?