It has been a couple of months since my last post for your and one that I do as part of this process is to go back and read the last post, sometimes just to correct small grammar or spelling mistakes, but not to change the message or write a better way to say something. I want this to be my raw thought and expressions, a first and only one draft. While looking back and reading my last post, it is strange to think of how things were just a few months ago and how things have changed and will forever be changed.

In my last post I talked about my extended family and some of the memories of the holidays. Memories that I will share with you in person, to the point where you can quote them, I am sure.  Several weeks ago I lost one of those people that helped shape the memories of my childhood. Memories that I am very fond of and that will always make me laugh. Memories that help remind me of the good in this world and what family and holidays were always meant to be. My cousin, Landon died unexpectedly and even now when I think about it, I am still in shock. He was 35.He left behind a wonderful, hardworking, Christian family. He was the oldest of five children, and had two younger brothers and two sisters. He was fully of jokes and pranks, sarcasm and honesty. As I traveled to and from the funeral I couldn’t help but put myself in the shoes of his family and the pain that they were and will continue to go through. I can’t imagine not being able to call your uncles, my brothers.Next to your mom and my parents, they are the most important people in my life. Sure we haven’t always gotten along, but I have grow very proud of both them and could not and would not ask for two different brothers than I have. We have laughed a lot together, yelled at each other and cried together. They helped share one of the most happiest moments in my life, your birth. I love them very much. One thing that I hope for often is that they are a part of your life in a big way, so that when you look back at your childhood, you will remember them being around, going to their house for a holiday, bbq, or just because. They are amazing men in their own right and each has their own lesson to teach you. So when the time comes, listen, hug their neck, look in their eyes and smile. You will have the ability to impact their lives as much as they can for you. They are you blood, your family.