What my parents gave me.

My family got together, yesterday. We all made it. It was at my brother's home in Decatur, Alabama. My oldest brother came from Mississippi. It was simply the highlight of my holiday. Since I am the youngest of the four, holidays were always special to me as I was still at home and everyone would start arriving from school, work, etc. Yesterday was no different. I felt the excitement rise in my chest as our daughter was driving us to our destination. I was thrilled that even my nephews would be there with their families. My brother's home in Decatur is warm, inviting and comfortable. His wife is organized and our menu is always great as everyone brings something to the table. My sister baked a delicious ham. The side dishes were great. Everything was warm. We sat all around the house with trays of food and good conversation. It was wonderful. We took a family portrait on the steps of their beautiful home. My heart overflowed with love and emotion. These people mean so much to me. We are a passionate family. We all share the common bond of love for each other. With funny stories to share. Learning more about each other and what has happened during the year. As the time to leave grew near, my throat started closing with the love overflowing from my heart. I was full to the brim. Saying our goodbyes, hugging, telling each other how much we love everyone, stopping to linger just a little longer to say how wonderful it all has been. Yes, I missed my parents. I even had a moment of tears. But, I cannot say thank you enough for what they gave me. Two brothers and a sister. The importance of family. Love. How to feed a ton of people. And the gift of each other.