family is...

Family is the root system that keeps me grounded, nourished, and reaching for the clouds.
Family is a giant UPS box full of individually wrapped gifts so that turning 28 feels like turning 8.
Family is going for a run together from different states.
Family is the deliciously comforting taste of a tomato and cheese sandwich.
Family is putzing around town.
Family is cocktail hour with laughter and stories from years past.
Family is stopping to pick wild blueberries.
Family is filling the kitchen with voices and good smells.
Family is accepting occasional grumpiness.

A few weeks ago, Justin's parents visited. My family has grown a lot in the past few years; we now span from the breadbasket of Illinois to the steel city of Pittsburgh (not to mention our less defined, but no less valuable washington family). Lucky, lucky, lucky.

A hike to Mink Lake with many pauses for wild blueberries.

Many hours spent around our kitchen table.

One evening, we enjoyed a crepe tower filled with tomatoes, basil, mushrooms, and love. (thanks, julia)

I finally got to make use of the tart cherries from the tree in our back yard.