Entry FeedMy older sister is expecting baby number four in October. WOW! She and her husband have three boys; the oldest will be seven in a few days.
Husband has a cousin with four boys. Their oldest will be seven in a few days as well. My younger sister has two kids; her oldest will be three in a few days. Husband has two sisters - the older one has two teens, and the younger one has three children (her middle will be four in a few days). Whenever we have birthday parties, our kids are just allowed to invite a friend or two as by the time we get all of the cousins together, it is enough for two hockey teams! Don't ask about my Visa bill this month with all of the birthdays...
It is fun to see them all together. Some get along better than others. I had four cousins growing up, and only one male was even close to my age - the rest are about 10 years younger. It would be nice to be closer to my cousins, but it is not the same as a same-aged cousin.
When we get all of the cousin's together you see the family similarities, in personality and looks. And they all live within an hour of us, so getting together isn't a problem.
I come from a family of three girls, and Husband has two sisters. When Son One was born, my father exclaimed, "But we only have girls!" Not anymore, Dad. On my side the boys outnumber the girls 6-2. On Husbands, the it is a tie at 4-all.
I think it is fun and important for the kids to grow up with an understanding and appreciation for family, and extended family. We feel lucky and blessed to have such a big family, and for the opportunity to be so close to them. Our kids not only have all of their grandparents, but they have two great grandmothers as well.
Family is great. They can be good for your health. Especially when taken is small doses.