In my opinion, family, really is the most important. I had the greatest summer, yet it didn’t involve a trip to an exotic location or a month traveling all over the country or overseas. I actually spent most of it with family which I truly cherish.

In June, we spent a week in French Lick, IN. with 19 of us from my husband’s side of the family. My father-in-law turns 80 this year and that was what he wanted for his birthday. It was great to be with everybody including our own two sons. Kulin, our youngest, is in culinary school and prepared a fabulous meal for all 19 of us with great reviews. Kyle, our oldest, assisted by sharing his bartender skills. What great memories!

At the end of July, Petra, who was an exchange student at my house in 1970-71, came to visit. She’s just like family. It was so great to see her and have her be able to visit my Mom who is struggling with Alzheimer’s. We were able to share so many memories and create new ones. It was a perfect 10 days.

Then Labor Day weekend, we had a family wedding nearby, so lots of relatives were in town. Again, it was great weather and so much fun at both the wedding and a family picnic the next day.

A week later, my sister and I had the grueling task of emptying and selling our Mom’s house and 55 years of stuff! It was a very surreal experience. But what helped us get through it was “family”. Two of my adult, male cousins showed up and not only did they help with manual labor, but the emotional support they provided was above and beyond. I’m pretty sure they don’t even realize how helpful they were. My two nieces also came to help and another cousin called the day of the garage sale and said she was coming with lunch (salad, chili and home made cake). I can’t begin to describe how great it was to have so much family there for support.

Unfortunately, as we grow older and in this day and age of so much mobility, extended families tend to grow apart. I am so grateful for having these relationships and knowing that when you need someone to lean on, they’ll still be there.

My challenge to each of you is to ask you to stop and think about what family members or friends you need to re-connect with. Make a phone call, send an e-mail or (God forbid!), send a letter. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly you pick up on the relationship right where you left off.

We all know that life’s too short, so don’t miss the opportunity. Being grateful for these relationships is a good start, but building on them and making events happen to cultivate the relationships is what allows us the chance to be appreciative of each other.