FASCINATIONS AND FAMILY

WHEW! Jean2 here and it has been a long time since I have blogged. I am sorry to let all my devoted readers down! :) Now on with the topic. People fascinate me. I truly love to have a variety of friends that bring new insights into my life. I love to found out *why they are the way they are*-you know-really get to know them. And I appreciate the diverstiy in them. In fact, I welcome it and love to discuss the issues. I don't get angry or frustrated if we don't agree on something because I don't care-it is ok to *agree to disagree.* I love to meet new people. The problem with that is my attitude changes when it comes to my OWN immediate family. That is where I expect them to act and be a certain way, I do not tend to appreciate their different personalities like I should. I try to pound what I think into their heads and if they don't agree with me-they usually do -well-then I have done a terrible job raising them. Of course, there is a difference in family and friends. However, I do view a lot of my friends as *like* family. I desire to spend my time with them, share ideas and opinions, and just sit back and talk. I truly value both my family and friends. Sometimes spending time with your family (extended-not immediate) becomes a chore. And no sis-if you read this -I don't see you as a chore! :) As we approach the family holidays, I am talking about the big family get togethers where you see these people once a year. You don't really KNOW them but you know a lot about them from other family members-there is no mystery there. You can pick your friends, but not your family. Sometimes I wonder why we put ourselves through it. The awkward silences (which I can't stand so I fix immediatley by rambling) , and the breaking of the ice converations. Why act like some big happy family ONCE A YEAR? Life is short (yet it is the longest thing we do)-I spend time with WHO I WANT TO SPEND TIME WITH and who I think want to spend time with me. I used to have a family member say to me.."You only come by when it is convenient" -in a joking way but I got the hint, so I replied, "What am I suppose to do-come by when it is inconvenient?" Who doesn't visit people when it is convenient. I mean-analyze that for a minute. And you know what-I don't know why I am blogging about this-because SO FAR I have no really big *family get togethers * coming up! YAY! Maybe the didn't invite me?? :)