My cup runneth over......

 

I often get joked with, or shall I say joked "about" due to my extremely large family. I suppose it fits the Arkansas "barefoot and pregnant" stereotype when I say that my father is one of 12 children. That's right, number 11, only one more after him, my uncle Kenny. They are all full siblings. Last year was a bad year, and we faced the death of my uncle Tommy, my aunt Floy (Tommy's spouse), my aunt Janice, and my aunt Betty. Prior to that, Jeanette and Martha Ruth had also passed. It was tough on the close knit crew, but together, we made it. My aunt Betty was raising a grandchild of hers, at the time of her death. My aunt Shirl stepped up and took in Kayce. That's what families do, I know, but I will readily admit, I admire my aunt immensely for this. She is truly a wonderful soul, that loves others way more than she will ever love herself. Because of these people, my blood, I have lots and lots of cousins. Most of "us cousins" have kids as well. It makes for large reunions, with tons of great food and lots of pictures. My cousin that resides furthest away is my cousin Michelle Gallina. She is a missionary in Kosova. She, her husband Gary, and their 3 daughters have made a life of witnessing to others. They are amazing. My mom, and her sister, married brothers. Makes me have......DOUBLE first cousins....... Also means we spent lots of time at my aunt and uncle's house!
What got me to thinking of this, and how blessed I am, was the tragic death of two year old Faith Reed. I pray that they have wonderful family, whether it be biological or church family, to step up and help them bear this burden. I know we often hear that the Lord doesn't give us more than we can handle. I am certain this baby's mom would not agree with that right now. I can't imagine her feelings of emptiness, and I hope she is comforted in the arms of her loved ones.
When my kids were being TERRIBLE yesterday, I held myself back from yelling at them, and I hugged them both, thanking God silently in my head that I am blessed enough to be their mother, and that I am blessed enough to have them here, fighting or not. I really want to be the best mother I can be, and not take any moments for granted. Pray that I can do that, pray that we ALL do that. Hit your knees tonight, I know I will.