Hooray for Family!

Brad and I are hesitant to settle down in Utah for many reasons, but I would have to say that most of my desire to move back east is to be closer to family. We get to see our family so rarely, and it's hard to feel connected to family events (new babies, illnesses, ridiculous month-long marathons). I experience a flood of relief when I think about leaving Utah tomorrow. It's like I've been held hostage and I have finally been allowed to go home.

I'm still pretty sad that we wouldn't be able to squeeze in a trip to Cincinnati. I miss home. But, while I can't go home right now, I have been very blessed lately with opportunities to see my family. Nathanael popped over the other day, and I saw Clara and Mom at my uncle's wedding. Even cooler is that Dad is going to drive down to Lexington Monday to intersect us on our trip. That's a display of true fatherly devotion. And amazingly, Joey is going to be in NC when we are, staying only an hour away from Greg. I feel like the universe is compensating for my inability to visit Porkopolis. Hopefully Nicole will be able to come out here soon with Lulu. I really want to see my niece :)

I'm probably going to be able to meet Tookie, which scares me to death. I'm terrified that she won't like me. I really admire her already and hope that she appreciates my high opinion of her. Brad says that I remind him of her. It would be very cool if that were true. Who knows? Might be. He says that he's going to buy one of her paintings, regardless of how much it costs. He's a really cute grandson.

In summary, family is one of the most beautiful things in the world. I'm glad that Brad and I are taking a vacation that celebrates our love for our family. I pray that all of mankind will be blessed with similar opportunities.

P.S. Our trip is also an opportunity to hoard cans of skyline and boiled peanuts. Can you blame us?