Family ~ I choose mine

{Image source}

Last weekend, like every weekend, was all about my family. I find myself at work midweek daydreaming about the weekend, for the rest yes, but mostly about the quality time to spend with my boys. Every other weekend I also get to enjoy the company of my brother, sister in law and my niece and nephews. We could just be sitting around the table talking and laughing, and I wish for nothing more. I drive a 15 year old vehicle, my house is tiny as can be, I am wearing last season’s clothes (and I will still be wearing them next season) and I am happy. My family are my breath of fresh air. They remind me what is good in life, and they remind me that everything else is just topping. My family are my world.

You may have read here about how years ago my family was dealt two tragedies within the span of 9 months. Prior to this I loved my immediate family immensely, we have always been super close. Following this I started to feel a new sense of loyalty and love and respect and adoration for my family like never before. I became extremely protective over my brother and the thought of anything happening to him or my niece and nephew was frightening. I am still protective of them, but perhaps after years of therapy the protective nature is no longer fueled by anxiety rather just natural instinct (even writing this stirs anxiety in my gut).

I know my brother has my back, he always has. As kids he was often left to look after me as Mum was working, often split shifts, and our Dad would work away. I would tag along with him to his footy training or wherever he was going. I wonder now what did we used to talk about as kids? I do recall he was often teasing me, and I spent some time sulking (isn't that what little sisters are supposed to do?!). But mostly I remember he had my back. Still does.

A huge part of who I am today is due to my family. My Mum and her wonderfulness (that's a whole other post) has provided us with opportunities I am thankful for. We did not want for much as kids and although we had problems like the next family, we were never short on love, discipline, support and encouragement. I think as a small family with all of our relatives outside of our immediate family abroad, we grew up tight. Even through the times my brother blew pepper in my face or defaced my dolls or made me touch Tommy our tomcat's balls (don't ask), I couldn't wish for a better brother. I love him to bits.

See, sulking!

 

Even if we could choose our family,

 I choose mine.

Now head on over to A Day in the Life of Us to see what other grateful bloggers are sharing.