When I look back at my life I realize that it is often the tiniest moment, the seemingly small random act that completely changes the direction of my journey and leads me down a path that fills me with wonder. God has been so good to enrich my life with such moments, and bless me with the friendship of some wonderful people. This year He blessed me with my niece Megan and her family.
I can’t explain exactly why I lost touch with Megan over the years. In a large family, flung out across the USA, it’s easy to stop corresponding with cousins and uncles and nieces and such. I heard bits of news from Mom while she was alive. I ran into Megan’s mom at WalMart from time to time and heard more news. But it wasn’t until last year when her sister died that I had the opportunity to see Megan again. It’s a sad fact that families often get together only at funerals. Ours is no exception.
After the funeral I asked for Megan’s email address and began a casual correspondence. To say that my life has changed since that first email is an understatement indeed. I honestly feel as though I have gained another daughter. Getting to know Megan and sharing her family has been more than just a blessing. It has changed me into “Aunt Mary”, a role I never felt comfortable with until now.
On our way home from California we took an extra day and drove to Utah to see Megan and her family. Our visit was short, but memorable. Jocelyn and Tyler met us in the driveway with smiles and hugs. Little Noah delighted us with his energy and laughter. Megan is still the delightful girl I remember, but she has grown into an intelligent, responsible woman. She has a charming husband, Trent, and a lovely home. She cooks and bakes and entertains. And her garden is a fairy-land! Jocelyn even showed me the fairy house where the little creatures live. (I’m going to make a fairy house for my garden!) I am so thankful that we had this time together and I’m sure it won’t be our last visit.
Be sure to look at the album of Megan’s flowers. Her garden is gorgeous and I think these are also some of the best flower photos Gary has taken. And you may also notice in the photos below that Megan’s balcony has the best view in Utah! (More of that later.)
Jocelyn is standing right here as I begin typing. She says "I love Aunt Mary." My kids love you! As do I.
What a totally unexpected post. I didn't expect such a mention. I didn't realize we had made much of an impact on your life, but knew how impactful you've been on mine/ours.
Truly it is sad that we've lost touch, but I am reveling in the closeness that we've developed over the last 9 months. I never expected it to happen and I completely thank you for reaching out. It's been since I was a teen (20 years ago) that I've felt close to a family member and I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for this new relationship. Thank you. I'm more than happy to be counted as another daughter-- a unique and generous title.
And thank you for being loved by my children.
Posted by: Megan | July 09, 2009 at 09:48 AM