My Wonderful Family!

I just got back from California where I visited my niece! I know I've said this before but it needs to be said again to underscore the importance of the all around feelings of my family.

Cecilia is her name. She was born out of wedlock to a unknown family, to me anyway, and she was taken in by my older brother and his wife. My brother always wanted a child of his own but it was never to be. But when the opportunity came to finally be a Dad with this new little bundle from heaven my brother was completely overjoyed with this beautiful little girl.

My brother was a severe critic about my being. Just like the rest of the family he always criticized me about something just like the rest of my siblings. So, I just went about my business doing what I had to do. I was blessed with a great job and a beautiful family of my own. My children were the best ever. And they still are.

That said, I never really visited my brother because of his attitude against me and also because his wife was a gossiping hag. I was never around Cecilia (I call her Ce Ce with lots of love now) and not until her Mom and Dad died. Somehow, probably because she took the first step, we had dinner one night when my daughter from Portland, Oregon visited. That was the get together that transformed my feelings towards her. I found a niece that was full of love for me and my family and was reaching out for acceptance.

Over the last 10 years or so we have grown close. I would never take the "title" of Dad away from my brother but I want her to know I am her "Dad" in love for her and her wonderful husband. This couple is a dream come true in their marriage. I truly love to see them.

I am blessed with a wonderful family of kids and grandkids and now a niece I'm proud to call "Mija" (a term of affection for a daughter).

I will see her soon again just because!!!