They say blood is thicker than water…that’s not always true. Don’t get me wrong, I’m extremely close to my immediate family, but outside
that, I’m not. In fact, my close friends are more like my blood than my own extended family. This weekend I spent time in the Texas valley with my best friend and her two boys that I consider my family; nothing like being in a small coastal town where everyone is friendly. Hearing my nephew’s little voices filled with excitement that I was visiting made me think of when I was their age. We didn’t grow up very close to aunts, uncles, or cousins, but we were fortunate our parents did many things with us. As a kid, you’d love to have that aunt or uncle that spoiled you rotten, unfortunately it doesn’t always turn out that way. Blood or not.
We are all put in other people’s lives for a reason…a blessing or a lesson. Being in these boys lives, I know I’m a blessing. I may not be blood, but I know what it feels like to not have your aunts and uncles do fun things with you or a part of your life at all. With me in the picture, I know the boys will never feel like they’re missing extended family from their lives. They know what it’s like to have an auntie spoil them, act a little silly when their mom or dad isn’t watching, go on unplanned adventures, and of course eat ice cream at any hour of the night…with good behavior of course!
If you have nieces and nephews make an effort to be in their lives, there’s no excuse not to be. This weekend we walked the beach, searched for seashells, climbed big sand dunes, and got to see some really cool sand castles.
I have 4 nephews…5 if you count a dog. I love them all and even though I don’t see them everyday, I make sure to make up for it when I do. Lots of memories were made this weekend…definitely one for the books! Stay tuned for my blog about Sand Castle Days in South Padre Island, Texas! 
April M. Monterrosa is a Proud Latina from San Antonio, Texas, a Military wife, the mama of a dachshund, a licensed Cosmetologist of 18 years, & Owner of The Lil Spa Room, PCA Skin Chemical Peel certified, a Nuskin Skin Care Distributor, & freelance beauty writer. With beauty & blogging being such passions, Shine Beautifully was born. Shine Beautifully will feature beauty tips, home remedies, quotes, poetry, recipes, personal stories, & travel adventures. Don’t forget to subscribe!
