bookends

i never had cousins growing up, so when my sister and i got pregnant within two months of each other, (her first, my last), we were so excited about the prospect of our kids having cousins that were so close in age.  over the last couple of years, as we've started to see the two of them become friends, i am more and more thankful for God's timing...even though i had to wait 30 years...and i still don't have a cousin.   i have a niece, and a nephew too, that i appreciate so much.

usually, when i think of "the cousins" it is the two girls who are so close in age that come to mind.  or our nephews on the other side of the family, who are closer in age to madeline and connor.  but recently, i discovered something perhaps even more sweet.  

last weekend, we had a spur-of-the-moment moseley family gathering.  there wasn't a birthday to celebrate, a holiday around the corner, or even a reason to gather.  we just got together...just because.  it was great.  the kids watched a movie.  the adults sat around the dining room table and talked for 2+ hours.  at one point, i looked into the living room and garrett, the oldest, (a recent teenager, complete with cell phone,) was sitting in the recliner with caroline, the baby of the group.  it was one of those moments. unfortunately, a camera would have ruined the moment, even if it were nearby.

not so with this bookend moment.  

sometimes it's the less obvious blessings, the ones that you aren't expecting, that mean the most.  as we head into this season of thankfulness i encourage you to find your, (perhaps less obvious,) bookend blessings.