Family Affair

I've seen a quite alot of this motley crew recently; I'm a big bundle of love for all of them: Dad(come visit me soon), Nan and Mole who are as entertaining as ever, the sandwiches and wine were much appreciated, Michele and Chris (hope you liked the cakes!) My sister Bridie and her lovely boyfriend Chris ( just let him join the army, think of all of the parties you'll go to!), I got to speak to my Maltese cousin James on the phone and I was wishing Adam luck for the Great North Run last weekend. And I've been thinking of the ones who aren't around, especially Nan Finch who is probably up there right now gossiping about the going-ons from cloud 12. From Andy's side we have seen them all, Sonia, Pip, Lillian, Terry and Sam (remember that Gap Year, Sam, the 'real world' can wait), Martin and Maureen, (thank you again for your hospitality) and for the first time in ever such a long while, Tim, Siobhan and their very beautiful and hilarious children, my niece and nephew, Hugo and Amelia.

I know more than anyone that families can be a pain in the arse; my family (and other animals) are particulary good at letting you know if their unhappy but over the years, I've come to love their quirky ways, that were oh so embarrsing in those tender, formative years. I love that fact we can scream and shout and then make up, all water under the bridge, and laugh at the stupid things we said. We've known divorce, betrayal, adultry, death, addictions and depression (Shakespeare has nothing on us, seriously, Hamlet is a light-hearted jaunt in the park to my clan) BUT we all do really love each other and come together when we really need to. We talk about things, we try to be honest with each other, because really, when it all hits the fan, you need someone who's got your back-these people HAVE to love you, you're related! :)

And then there is extended family. The ones you choose to let in and become part of your tapestry. I miss her loads but seeing Jem last week really perked me up, it is a friendship that you can pick up however many years along the line and it'll be business as usual. I love her so much and it's great to see her so happy with Jay. The Kings who have just welcomed newbie Riley James Orson into their brood. He is so tiny! Very happy for you guys, but seeing the tiredness has curbed my broodiness for a while! Amy and Jamie (nice ring to it eh?) who are miles and miles away in distance but never in my thoughts. Phil- One of the best, he has seen me through the tough times and is still pretty much the funniest guy (not including the man I married) I know with the best taste in music. Happy Birthday Amanda for Sunday!! Thanks for the love, you are too kind, I hope the wedding planning is going well, you have someone here who was shopping for invites until 2am some mornings, so if you need any help, I'm here. Lisa-My best friend from school, praise Facebook. We need to meet up sometime this year and get properly pissed! Aimee Todd- We need to stick together, sisters are doing it for themselves, lol!.

Sorry to anyone that feels left out, these people are just at the fore front of my mind and felt they deserved a special mention. I still love you!

Adele xxx