Cousin Love

We had such a great and busy weekend, but the tiredness was and is totally worth it.  Nate's sister and her family drove all the way from Arizona to here for one day.  We haven't seen Tash since Ian was about six months old, and Nate and I have never met Bryce.

I don't even have any words to desire how happy and full my heart felt, hearing cousins play and laugh together.  It was one of the most beautiful sights, and something that I have wanted for my kids for years.  Too bad they are moving to Hawaii in September.....

The house was so full, but everyone was so happy, and great grandparents trickled in and out all the time, stopping by to love on everyone and to just hang out.  The older I get the more I love family.

Ian and Hayleigh loved every minute of it.  Hayleigh, of course had everyone wrapped around her finger, and totally suckered her cousins into doing everything for her, from pushing her in the stroller on the sidewalk for hours, to taking care of every one of her needs or wants.  And her cousins of course loved playing "baby" so much.  Ian and Bryce hit it off as well, and the two of them played cars and trains for hours on end, running around and chasing each other.

I am so grateful for the time we had with our nieces and nephews, and all the fun conversation we had with Tash and Roger - it was a fun weekend.

Things we enjoyed this weekend...

Family breakfast time.
Eating together around a big table is usually the best, and the conversation and stories flow more easily.  It was one of my favourite times.



























Watching the kids help ouma with breakfast.





























Playing outside together. 
The kids played outside most of the time, and we would just sit and chat and watch.  It was amazing.
































A few family pictures.






























Water balloon fights.
I won't lie - this made me a little nervous at first, since my Ian is so sensitive.  But I was pleasantly surprised by his awesome reaction, and he had so much fun. Hayleigh skipped this and just watched from the side line with Mema.



































Yellow watermelon. 





























Cousin love.



























After bath snuggles and movies.




























Early morning pajama play.




























Early morning tea and coffee.
I loved waking about grabbing a cup and settling around the table, just hanging out while the kids play and sleep.



























Uncle and Aunt snuggles.
The kids were completely taken by them, in fact I think it is safe to say that they love them so much.  I loved watching them open up and hang out with Tash and Roger, so special.  Hayleigh more then Ian, since he had a little buddy!





























We are recovering from little sleep, and no naps - but it was all worth it.

We are sad to see them move so much further away, but so excited for their new adventure, and the possibility to take a trip to Hawaii - fingers crossed.

My heart is so full right now, it feels like it might burst.  I am so happy and grateful that Ian and Hayleigh were able to meet their cousin (for Hayleigh it is the first time) and that they were able to bond.  Now it will be easier to keep in touch, and the kids will want to make an effort again.

Beautiful memories were made and stashed away forever, I am thankful.

Happy Tuesday!

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