Cousins

Up until 2 years ago, our kids where the only grandkids on either side of the family and although that can be fun and special, this meant they had no cousins.  Cousins can be some of the best friends we have and certainly some of the longest friends.  Two years ago my sister Anda gave birth to a beautiful little girl named Ava.  Ava is only 7 months younger then Kayleigh so they have been together for most of their lives.  They are becoming quite good friends too! 

Yesterday when Anda and Ava were in town visiting, Kayleigh was beside herself giddy to see Ava or "Av" as Kayleigh has begun referring to her as. They greeting each other with a big hug and beautiful smiles.  For the next 2 hours they giggled and played, coming back every few minutes to show us what they have found or to tell us who said what!  It was quite cute and they were certainly enjoying themselves. 

It is experiences like this and all the ones previously that make me realize how our kids and their cousins will have such a unique bond.  It also shows that they don't have to see each other everyday, talk very often, or even have more in common then simply being cousins.  We are watching the bonds and friendships form that our kids are going to have with them forever.  Friends come and go but family (cousins) are a constant.  Even when they aren't there physically or emotionally, they are there.