Siblings 101

Well, to say that I have the world's best bros and sis would be an understatement. I truly love them and am so grateful for them in my life. We were so lucky to all be together this Christmas, since we never know when that will happen what with missions, study abroad, marriages, moving, etc. etc.

I guess that shows we're all getting older.

Or are we?! From the pictures below, you be the judge.


Dave and Rashelle:
Sharing a funny moment with Bella. She is a little slow to warm up, but eventually realized how cool they are. She obviously is busting a gut at Rashelle's face in this pic who had enough grace and humor to be silly with her. Dave is a great bro--the only about 18 months younger than me. He's my big little brother that I will always cherish.

Who's this?!

Hmm . . . her sweatshirt says "Rachel" on it, but with the painted nice nails, that is definitely not me. This gal has posted plenty an embarrassing photo of me on FB, and so, here's your glory shot, T-Ressa. Send me a better one if you want and I'll write your very own post later!! Love YOU! ;)

Uncle Nate:

as referred to by Bella, is holding on of the new games Dave taught us, "pass the pigs." Yes, that is an actual mini pig he is holding in his hand. No, he is not That big. He is very Christlike and loving in his demeanor. He's a great younger brother who's taken his share of guff from us older ones. Both he and Dave are very intellectual and have inspired me to bust out Atlas Shrugged. As well as gently reminding me by example how I should be living my life. Sooo glad I could see him this Christmas as I will really miss seeing him this summer since he's headed to the Middle East!!! You can bet the natives on his mish must've loved that blonde hair and blue eyes. I'm sure the locals where you're going will too. :)

Aunt Manda:
My little buddy. She and Bella are buddies now too. I loved to see them play together this Christmas as Bella is getting more imaginative, and Manda let her do anything to her (insert huge pile of pillows and such on top of Manda here). I love this picture of Manda because I think it says so much about who she really is. She of course is a huge soccer player and right in the midst of high school--it helps remind me that I'm not THAT old since I have a sister still in high school. She also doesn't seem to be too OCD about her appearance, but is so beautiful in her own right. Tressa and her have this beautiful long hair and I love her cute complexion. She's also a jokester--by the look on her face I caught her in the middle of a laugh. She is just awesome and I hope she gets her wish of moving to Hawaii this year so I can come visit!! :)

"Aunt Wivvy"

Last but not least is Aunt Livy, the youngest of the Oswald clan. Unfortunately, Livy, this is the only picture I have of you from Christmas. Send me a better one and, like Tressa, I will do your own flattering post later on. She is a gem who plays with Bella and Sierra and is SOoooooo helpful and kind. I don't think she knows how to get mad at Bella. I am excited for her to visit in a few months! I think it is cool that my kids get to have young aunts and uncles that give them attention and love. Thanks Liv!

So there ya have it folks, a quick summation of my awesome amigos.
How to be a great one?! Take any of them as an example. I am so lucky to have them in my life and hope they all know how much they are all loved and cherished by me. They all have their own talents and strengths and I hope they realize how special they are.

And again, dear brothers and sisters, if any of you would rather a more flattering shot be posted on this public blog, email me, and I'll write your very own special post.

Love YOU!