I come from a very small family.

I have one uncle on my mom’s side.

I have no first cousins.

However, my mom has several cousins and growing up we were particularly close to two of them ~ LouAnn & Sharon. They both have kids my age and a little younger so I’ve always considered them my first cousins even though they are actually my third cousins. Back in the mid-80s to mid-90s we would get together annually during the holidays and trade off houses between Long Beach, Mission Viejo/San Juan Capistrano and our home in San Diego. We always had a huge feast, visited and exchanged gifts. LouAnn & Sharon’s parents, Uncle George & Aunt Alice, were fabulous cooks and the holiday tables were bursting with good food. I will always remember these small, intimate gatherings with our little family.

Unfortunately great uncle George passed away in 2000, but we of course continued to see aunt Alice and were honored that she was able to attend our wedding almost 10 years ago.

Well, today is her 95th birthday!

We travelled to the Temecula area this past Saturday afternoon to celebrate. The little clubhouse in her HOA was packed with so many of her dear friends and family. She was overjoyed with the kind words spoken from the mouths of these friends that have known her for decades. She was taken aback by all the cards and gifts bestowed upon her. But I have no doubt that she felt special and now knows what an impact she made on so many lives over the years. It was a honor to attend and brought back so many memories from our visits years ago.

{the birthday girl dancing with my Uncle Larry}

{L-R: my mom, Elliott, Auntie Alice, me, LouAnn & Sharon}

*****

Our lives have now taken us to different states and onto different seasons, but we’re always together for the milestones.

I don’t know what it’s like to come from a big family, but I’m sure happy with my little one.

The happiest of happy birthdays to you, Auntie Alice! Wishing you many blessings in the next year and always….