Spent the last few days with family in Qatar. It is always odd seeing ordinary family life going on somewhere exotic, somewhere so foreign. Of course, we've done it too, in Thailand, but that was a long time ago. It is just proof that home and family can be wherever you make it. However you make it.
It was lovely to see BIL and SIL again, and of course, our 13-year-old nephew too. We don't know him that well - over the years have only seen him a few times, and being a boy he's a bit more reticent with us than his sister (who had the advantage of knowing us well before she left the country). We had the opportunity to attend a major milestone for my nephew, and whilst he may not have realised it, it meant a lot to me that we could be there for it - supporting him, supporting his parents, and being part of the family. I talked to his mother about it. She acknowledges that she misses her family, having community and family around her for such events, so she appreciated us being there. And I said to her too, that the childless aunt and uncle appreciated being there, as we don't get to be part of milestones like this. It is one of my major sadnesses - that most of my nieces and nephews live so far away, and only know me as a theoretical name, the mysterious "Auntie (Mali)."
But at least this day wasn't sad. And I was glad to kick off our trip in this way.
I'm glad the trip went well and that you had an enjoyable time at your nephew's milestone.
ReplyDeleteGlad to know that the trip started with lovely memories already. :-) I also live far away from my brother's son (and upcoming son) and my nephews from my hubby's side, so I can relate to this.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you were able to participate in this milestone. Especially so since your family is so spread out. Wishing you a wonderful rest of your trip!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure your visit will be the basis for a great memory for all involved. Look forward to hearing what comes next. Safe travels.
ReplyDeleteSo nice that you were able to start your travels by connecting with your family again at a special time in your nephew's life. I am sure he will remember your visit, as will you!
ReplyDeleteGreat start to your trip! Will you be able to catch them on the way home too? Or are your travels taking you in a different direction?
ReplyDeleteDH's sisters all live close by, but only his oldest makes a conscious effort to make sure we are included in milestone events with her boys. She will reschedule if DH can't be there. His other sisters will invite us, but if we can't make it, oh well. I have grown to appreciate that about his oldest sister.
ReplyDeleteSo great that you were able to be there with your nephew. Enjoy the rest of your trip!
Glad you had a lovely trip. It is always nice to reconnect with family that isn't seen very often.
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