{me and my sister last night}
Last night, I went to my Great-Uncle Harry's 80th birthday dinner. It was held at a lovely restaurant called Truxton's in Westchester. There was a surprise musical performance by my 10 and 11 year old cousins, very moving toasts and great food.
Uncle Harry and Aunt Bev are this amazing couple with an amazing story. They met at work in the early 1950's, both young college graduates working at an engineering firm. He had a fancy car, she wanted to take a ride in his fancy car; that was the beginning of an over 30 year love affair. Harry and Bev had three talented, intelligent daughters who each had two more talented, amazing children.
I love that whenever we're together, Uncle Harry and Aunt Bev always say how much they wish my grandma and grandpa were there. Whenever they mention their success, they mention how my grandpa sacrificed so that his little brother, Harry, could go to college and become the man that he is. They are such humble, loving, down-to-earth people and I am lucky to know them, much less call them family.
I never knew this extended family until I was an adult, but maybe this is better. I can appreciate them in a way I may not have if I had grown up with them. I see their love and caring and I really see what family means. It's not just the people who are related to you, it's the people you choose to surround yourself with. It's embracing love from all directions. Which is what Valentine's Day is all about, right?
Happy Valentine's Day to all of you!
it's always good to meet certain people later in your life, like that you can appreciate them more, and that's a great photo of you!
ReplyDeletehappy V.D!