My Big Fat Family

       This week has been pretty eventful to say the least. From snow tubing to snuggling up by the fire on a cold winters night, I have to say that I had a unforgettable christmas break. Arriving at my grandparents house in Brainerd is only the beginning. The feeling of being greeted by all of my relatives from all over the U.S. is such a wonderful feeling. Aunt Carol, Uncle John and their foster child Kilan (8 months) arrived from North Dakota around the same time as my cousins from Texas, my cousins Matt and Sarah, both coming with their loved ones from Boston and Washington D.C, came for a couple days before they had to leave and spend christmas with their other families, and my aunt Shelly and her children Abby, Cam and Caitlin from Rochester and Chicago showed up on christmas day just in time to start our meal of prime rib, mashed potatoes and much more. 

        After we said our goodbyes to most of the family on christmas day, my family from texas decided to come stay in our guest cabin for the whole week. Every day is a new adventure with them considering they barely ever see snow. We got to take them out snowmobiling, sledding, snowboarding, skiing, and snow tubing. For some of them it was their first time experiencing the snow in that way and for others it wasn't but it sure is fun making fun of them for being so naive. Other than spending time in the snow, it is family tradition to end all of our nights together watching a family movie. Mom makes the hot chocolate, while dad and all of the cousins make popcorn and scrounging for candy in the cupboards. On our last night together we decided to break tradition a little and spend the night outside next to a cozy fire. It has been something we have been meaning to check off the bucket list for a long time. Even though it was a little chilly, we all got on our snow gear, cuddled up together and all of the parents told stories of when they were young.

        Every time my cousins come visit us up in Minnesota I have the best time of my life. They are so fun to be around and when all of us are together, there is never a dull moment whether they are making fun of me, goofing around with each other, or just sitting in the living room having a casual conversation.