The Blessing(and Heartache) of a Family

 "A family is like an oak tree. A few blows wouldn't bring the tree crashing down. But it would require a lot of healing and love to ensure stability." (Source)

It's interesting how family members respond and react to each other, sometimes even sad or frustrating.

We had our ups and downs throughout her younger years, but I had always hoped that, as the only daughter I'd ever have, she and I would eventually become close.

It didn't happen. With the entering of a half-brother and later the sudden passing of her full-brother, the bonding didn't occur...with either her father, nor her stepmother...myself.

She grew up, married, started a family, and had her own life...a busy life. 

I ached for a close relationship, but the more I strove to bring us closer together, the futher she pushed me away. Every now and then, she reappeared and would spend an hour, maybe even the day, with us. Then, we didn't see her or her beloved family for months, or even years. 

I'm saddened, but I'll take what I can get...a small pocket of time, creating memories that will linger forever in my mind.

The 4th of July weekend was a whirlwind of activity for me and my family! There were lots of fun surprises and special times with family members. Some healing also took place, as long unseen family were re-united. Some family members weren't able to join us, which also made this celebrated holiday bittersweet.

On the 4th, we spent the day at my aunt and uncle's 

lake cottage...yes, we aren't the only lakers in our family!

It is a much smaller lake and also much quieter.

We visited with our Pennsylvania relatives, who came for the week. 

    On the 6th, we participated in a flotilla parade with our pontoon boat.

 Granddaughter 1 and grandson love jet-skiing!

 The grandkids also enjoy tubing.

 They even got me out on a jet-ski!

 Jet-skiing and knee-boarding . . .

 . . .is a family affair.

 Granddaughter 2 and Grandson love roasting marshmallows

 The kids and grandkids

The only person missing was my son, who had to work and could not be home for the holidays.

I could either let the hurt and frustation of the past affect the present or move past it, forgive, and appreciate each moment we do have together. I choose the latter.

 

 "When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude." Gilbert Chesterton,

Continuing to count my blessings, one by one at   "Multitude on Mondays".

1,402 - Spending time with out-of-state relatives, as well as close family.
1,403 - Freedom in Christ ...that does not require a set of rules or good works to be saved.

 "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Galations 5:1)

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— ⁹ not by works, so that no one can boast."(Ephesians 2:8-9)

1,404 - Spending the day with my stepdaughter and her family.
1,405 - The freedom to worship and live for Christ in the USA.
1,406 - The Founding Fathers, who chose to put God in the Pledge of Allegiance and the U.S. Constitution, among other original documents.
1,406 - Pretty and colorful fireworks display.
1,407 - A new song I learned in church

1,408 - A day to rest and prepare for a busy new week ahead.
1,409 - Spending some time talking and reminiscing with our neighbors, a lovely older couple.
1,410 - Working with some awesome, caring people at my job.

Also linking over to these blog hops:
Heart Reflected Blog Hop
Sunday Stillness (He Cares For You)
Weekend Brew (My Freshly Brewed Life) 
 Soli Deo Gloria Party (Finding Heaven)
 Sharing His Beauty (Beauty In His Grip)
Titus2sdays (Time-Warp Wife)
UNITE (Rich Faith Rising)
Gratituesday (Heavenly Homemakers)
Winsome Wednesday(My Daily Walk in His Grace)  
Thrilling Thursday (The Family Blog)

T.G.I.F. (Bible Love Notes)