Things I've learned from my cousin

When we were younger I did not like my cousin. This is for no real reason other than she was 6 years younger than me and followed me everywhere. I, of course, wanted to be with the big kids who probably hated having me tag along after them! It wasn't a big deal though since I did not see my cousin much. She lived in Connecticut, which for Rhode Islanders might as well have been Florida. I saw her at holidays and the family gathering at beach week. The last time we saw each other was at beach week 2 years ago. It was the first time that I had really spoken with Leah since we became adults. I was surprised to learn that we had things in common and I enjoyed my time with her. I regretted that I couldn't spend more time with her but I had the kids to take care of and naps etc. and she was just in for a couple weeks from Uzbekistan so she had to get in all her visiting.
Being so close we invited Leah to join us for Christmas. I was excited that I would get to spend Christmas with some family. I have realized since Leah has been here that it is also an added bonus for me since I have found out things I didn't know.

1. I like my cousin and we really laugh a lot
2. There are things about us that are just from our moms' family.
3. Even though we didn't see each other much growing up we have a lot of the same things to laugh about that happened in the family.
4. She didn't go to American University as I had been told
5. I learned my other cousin has moved in with his girlfriend and the girlfriend is having their baby in a week!!! (Keep in mind I talk to my mother multiple times a week and this had NEVER come up!!)

There is more that I have learned and I'm sure I will learn even more over the course of the next week. I'm glad she is here. Even with the cabinets falling this has been one of the best Christmas' ever.