http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=909_zHxZVMo&feature=player_embedded
Easter 2011!
Just gotta say what a pleasure and blessing it is to be a member of such a diverse family. I feel like, at least I hope, I have been adopted since 1985. The diversity is splendid. In each nook and cranny of the room you can stop in for a chat with someone who holds a different belief system, a different style of hair & dress, a different way of expression, a different lingo, but one thing holds true for each one you encounter -- and that is there is a deep love and devotion and camaraderie we all share. I can lean in and listen to sisters chat about anything from rabbits to God; nephews from anything to tattoos, Mohawks, moving ground and poetry; brother-out-laws cooking, motorcycles, carpentry and teasing; nieces, kids.
As the Cheers theme song says it so explicitly -- you want to go where everyone knows your name!!!!
In 1985, I married into the Burgess family, specifically the family created by Ralph & Francis Burgess of Ellijay. I married their wonderful son Nathan. Not sure exactly how he was raised, but he learned how to be a gentle, quiet, loving husband & father. A strong silent leader. Just his ways make you want to follow him and adopt his manner -- imitate is the word that comes to mind.
Visiting this year at Easter was so nice. We enjoyed much laughter, conversation -- and, yes, food. Very delicious food, by the way. I had no idea my brother-in-law Ken could smoke such delicious barbecue or that Darlene could compete so perfectly (I'm sure Danny helped to test it). The food was truly delicious. We were happy to contribute one of the best things that comes from our kitchen: paper plates & napkins. Yes, we are very clean people!
Back to the reason for this blog.
This blog is simply to say how very blessed and privileged I feel to be a member of such a loving family. I never feel a meanness or hatefulness in their home. I never feel as though they are saying one thing and thinking another. I love my family that adopted me so many many years ago. From the day Francis met me, she painstakingly attempted to teach me how to make biscuits and can fresh veggies from Ralph's garden. I'd sell my molars for his green thumb. She was very patient with me and God knows I needed someone to be patient with me, had no experienced that much in my life. And Ralph always cut up with me and made me feel welcome in his humble home. I love you guys! I love all of you. I love Nathan's siblings and their kids and grandkids. The list goes on and on and, by the way, has gotten a little larger as the years go by. I love Nathan's daughter, that I also hope and pray has adopted me. Her presence is illuminating, as is her smile and warmth.
Though these are not my blood kin the tie goes deeper. Blood is not thicker than water, in my book. Love is deeper than any ocean. Hence, what does water have to do with it? Yes, you can hum that to Tina Turner's tune, if you like.
I lead a much too busy life. I work oftentimes 60+ hours a week. So I don't get to spend nearly enough time with my adoptive family. But even when I'm away from them for long periods, when we all do get together under the same roof, the bond is still as tight, the rafters hear the ring of the same laughter and we embrace the moment. God bless you, Burgesses. You're the BEST!!!!!
