Sunday, February 1, 2009

A Valentines Challenge


My friend Christine came up with this awesome idea of listing daily throughout February the things that I love. I think it's a fantastic idea and something I need to be reminded of when days are hard. That being said, here is today's item.


I have come to understand and appreciate the importance of family throughout this challenging year. I lost the woman who'd had the greatest influence in my life, but suddenly found myself surrounded by people I didn't know really cared. I've got five brothers and sisters, dozens of nieces and nephews, a fantastic husband and children, and in-laws who I finally see as real people. I've also gained friends who I've adopted into my family and are there with open arms and a listening ear when I need shoulder.

Today my big brother said he loved me. I don't ever remember those words coming from him. It melted an iceberg I'd held in my heart. I am blessed with a fantastic family; funny, sincere, some of them a little gross at times, but always, always loving.

I love them, every one.

5 comments:

Christine said...

Karen,
I was touched by your post this morning. I know how hard it can be to lose someone you love. My son, Steven, passed away a couple years ago and the sadness of it still haunts me when I least expect it. I have learned to find the joy in his memories and long to be with him again someday. Hang in there.

Hugs

Shari said...

I like this idea. I'm totally using it.

Love you!

Nichole Giles said...

Karen,
I'm glad you're finding the silver lining after all the hard times you've experienced in the last few years.

Family is everything. I agree, it really helps to realize that the people who matter most really do love you.

Good post.

Nichole

Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen said...

Definitely one of my loves, too. My family, that is. :)

Jewel Allen said...

Your brother's words would be pretty amazing, wouldn't it?