Family

What is family? According to Webster's dictionary, definition 3 its a "group of people who are related by marriage or common ancestors; relatives; clan." That's what we all say. But why is it when family is supposed to mean so much to us all that they are the ones to treat everyone poorly! Last night I spent some time with a part of my "family" that live out of town. I always thought that for the most part these two weren't real big on me, and last night they made it obvious. They make no attempt to be friendly or even include my family in their activities, they think we are beneath them. And the best part is they don't even know me or my husband, kids, or even my siblings. I guess that's what makes me so upset. If they knew me and then decided they didn't want to associate with me, whatever. But i am a good person and maybe I'm not rich like them, but I have so much more.
I don't understand how these people can be so "concerned" with family and yet treat some of them so poorly.
Which brings me to what I think family is, or at least should be. I think its people who love, respect and care for each other. People who would help others out of a jam if they could. People who play with one another's kids and babysit. People who trust each other, and enjoy each other. Who treat one another kindly and with love. So I say to all the people who are family to me and my family. Thank you, and here are your props!
Joe, Fawn, Zach, Aubrie, Logan and new baby.... (maybe) We love you guys. We couldn't be more thrilled that we are so close! We love to spend time with you, and love to get the kids together! Joe you are one of the best uncles in the world! You never act put out, when we need your help, you enjoy them and Greg always says he considers you a brother more than a cousin! Fawn, you are an amazing friend, even when you don't agree with me you are supportive! I appreciate you more than you ever know! You are a great aunt, and I am so glad that we moved to Arlington, with out that I don't think we'd be as close as we are. I look forward to thousands of your calls a day. Zachary, you are the best big cousin in the world. You are so helpful, and loving. Even though Noah is younger than you, you play with him like he's your best friend. You are patient and wonderful! Always helpful with Mylee! You are such a wonderful boy and I enjoy you so much! Aubrie, oh Aubrie... you have the most amazing stories, you are so full of life and you are so fun! You are a great big cousin too, and Mylee loves you so much! I can't wait to see the woman you become, and so proud of how wonderful you have become this past year, you've become such a big girl. Logan, you are so funny. You are becoming such a great little boy, you have smile that could light up the darkest night! And new baby (maybe) I can't wait to meet you...
Winklers.... Cassie, you are one of the best people I know, you are always there no matter what. You defend my honor, and are completely loyal,. I know that you genuinely love my children, as does Dustin... Who is always playing with with the kids, and you are so supportive, and always listen to my stupid stories. You guys treat us like family, and we think of you that way. Delaney you are such a nice girl, and so patient with the other kids, Camden... what to say.... you are a wild man, but I love you and your kisses, and you are so full of life... Paxton.. I love you and I hope the rest of your life is easier!
Mom... well that would be such a long thank you. I hope that you know how amazing I think you are... Amy... and your family....
I guess my point is, I don't need these people who don't actually like me or respect me, because I have so many people in my life that love me and are more family then I could ever call some of my actual family. I'm so incredibly lucky to have you people in my life, I don't know why I would ever sweat a bunch of jerks. Thanks so much guys for being amazing, and for the people not mentioned, I am sorry, my baby is crying, but I hope that you know I love you and if not I know that within due time, I will make sure you know!
Here's to real family!