Logan, Veronica, KA, Ron, Miss, Tay, and I have enjoyed time in the mountains these past few days. The best part, however, about our time has not been the breath taking scenery, the mountain trail runs/hikes in the early morning, the shopping in Estes Park or even the best cookies ever from Boulder Baked.
The best part has been simply being together.
You see, my sister and her family barely know me and mine. We’re separated by six states and twelve hundred miles. We get together once a year if we’re lucky. Neither one of us has made much of an extended effort to get us together. I’m sure we both think it’s the other parties problem. Funny, huh.
Today, however, was like old times back in Salina growing up. We played together and forgot about our differences and distances. We laughed so hard at lunch, KA cried, Tay shook, and Logan smiled from ear to ear. We made some new memories as we enjoyed each other’s company. Tonight we’ll share some salmon, tell some stories, and tomorrow head home from this beautiful state of Colorado. And, well never forget Dottie, their 9 year old dog who is wagging her tail with her head in my lap as I’m writing. I guess extended family, at it’s best, feels about like this.
Funny how all it took was me decided to extend a little effort instead of waiting for another to meet me halfway. Funny how often we wonder what happened to old friends and distant relatives and look out the window instead of in the mirror. Extended families require extended effort. I’m not so good at this and even worse at assessing my effort vs. another’s. I tend to keep score and oftentimes feel it’s another’s turn to extend. And so I sit and wonder why. I’m sure you and yours can’t relate, or can you? Funny, huh…
BUILT TO LEAD 
Thanks Chet! We all need this reminder, if we wait for the other person to meet us half way, we may lose a lot of opportunities for great moments, great relationships and simply being blessed with great people in our lives!
Chet: I must say I am convicted by this post. Have been wrestling with this exact issue…wondering why it always seems to be my responsibility to go visit my family. Of course, the stories I tell myself in this arena are long and have a consistent theme…and I could use them as excuses to stay distant from my family. Or, I can choose to take the time, make the trip (to Colorado, as well), and enjoy their company while we are all still on the planet. Thank you for sharing your insights…they are helping me gain clarity in my motives and thinking.