maine

Last month while on vacation in Maine, I finally met my 4 month old niece and spent some much needed time with my little brother, Zack. The last time I saw him neither one of us had children. Yes, it has been that long!

Growing up we were pretty close, even though there was a 4 year age gap between us. We dealt with a lot of garbage growing up in the housing projects, with a depressed mom. Both of us survived our childhood relatively unscathed though. Sadly enough, a few years after I left for college (out-of-state) Zack and I lost touch. I always wondered how he was doing and hoped he was well. I can’t even recall how I finally got my hands on his phone number, a few years ago. I remember how happy and nervous I was when we spoke for the first time, after not speaking for many years.

Since then, we have remained in touch through text, the occasional phone call, and Facebook. Last summer when we were in New England, I was hoping to get together with him, so he could meet the boys but it didn’t work out. Finally this fall we were reunited and I witnessed my baby brother holding his baby. I get chills up my spine just thinking about it. My baby brother, the one who I built blanket forts with. My baby brother, the annoying pest who just wouldn’t leave me alone when I was a moody teenager. My baby brother, who looked like a pro holding his daughter.  My baby brother, who beamed with happiness as he gave his sweet baby a kiss.

Our short visit was by far one of my favorite moments in our week long trip. I finally met my brother’s girlfriend, Tellis, who was just as sweet as I imagined through my encounters with her on Facebook. I loved watching Zack meet his nephews. It was more special than these photos show. But really how does one express such emotions of happiness with a photo?

I loved holding my niece, Nola Autumn, for the very first time. She is so precious. Even cousin Noah thought so!

I loved watching my husband hold my niece.  It reminded me of watching him cradle Noah and Xander in his arms, when they were that small.  Such fleeting moments I wish I could bottle up forever.  I loved that two of my favorite people were in the same room, spending time together with our children.

After we enjoyed lunch together the kids decided to crash.  Ah, a joyful sight to see, the vacation nap. Noah is the only one who was not sleeping, no surprise there.

The afternoon passed by much too quickly and before we knew it we were saying our goodbyes. I wish nothing but happiness for my brother. He is an amazing dad and person. I can’t wait to watch him grow as a parent. As we left, I vowed to him that we can’t let another five or more years go by until we see each other again. These kids just grow too fast!  Before we know it these kids of ours will have children of their own.  It’s so exciting to think about who they will become.  The sky is the limit for them.

I’m so thankful for the time I spent with my brother and his family and I can’t wait to see them again.

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