Cousins are more than just family—they’re a glimpse of God’s love in action.

I grew up with 13 cousins just on my mom’s side. My mom is the youngest of four siblings, and I was an only child for the first nine years of my life. But God made sure I was never without family around me. My Uncle Warren & Aunt Judy, and my Uncle Wayland & Aunt Barb, became like surrogate parents—guiding me while letting me enjoy the joy of cousins as siblings.

4 Siblings and Spouses

(L-R: Uncle Sherm & Aunt Dorothy, Uncle Wayland & Aunt Barb, Aunt Judy & Uncle Warren, My mom and dad)

Cousins Who Became the Siblings I Needed

Kim (Warren’s daughter) was eight months younger than me, and Keith (Wayland’s son) was two months older. We did everything together—camp, youth group, Sunday School… even sports, though Keith’s school usually won! At that time, God had given me the siblings I never had.

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Top Left: Me, Keith & Kim 2024 | Bottom Left: Keith & I Christmas 1973

Top Right: Me & Keith 1975 | Bottom Right: Me & Kim 2021

Uncles and Aunts: Living Proof of God’s Love

Of course, I wouldn’t have had these moments without the godly examples of my aunts and uncles. Aunt Judy and Aunt Barb, now both with Jesus, were prayer warriors who taught me grace, the importance of listening, and simply being present. My uncles showed me hard work, tender hearts, and unwavering faith. Even now, while battling cancer, they continue to praise God.

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Top Left: Aunt Judy & Me | Bottom Left: Judy & Warren house

Top Right: Aunt Judy & Aunt Barb | Bottom Right: Aunt Barb & Me

Cousins, Camp, and Moments That Last

I’ll never forget the summer I thought I couldn’t go to Camp Hickory because of cost. When my uncles heard, they said if I could earn a quarter of the fee, they’d cover the rest. I cried tears of thankfulness! That summer, they were the hands and feet of Jesus to me and my family.

Growing up, I was firmly in the “band geek” group. At a camp talent show, I nervously played the flute. My cousins were the first to cheer and clap—making a memory I’ll treasure forever.

I was the first of our cousins to get married and have kids. Kim soon followed, and then Keith. Even though distance separates us—Kim in Minnesota and Keith in Illinois—we’ve shared countless milestones, adventures, and memories, from AWANA Olympics to Camp Hickory summers.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.”

A Life Shaped by Love, Faith, and God’s Timing

God has a way of placing the right people in our lives at just the right time, and my cousins, aunts, and uncles have been living proof of His faithfulness. Their love, encouragement, and prayers have shaped who I am today, teaching me how to walk in grace, faith, and generosity.

As I reflect on all these memories—the laughter, the lessons, the late-night conversations, and the unwavering support—I’m reminded that family isn’t just about shared blood; it’s about shared love and God’s guidance through every season of life. I hope to honor their example by being a source of encouragement, a listening ear, and a prayerful presence for those around me, trusting that God will continue to place just the right people in my path.

Truly, life is richer and more joyful because of the family God has given me—cousins who became siblings, and aunts and uncles who became mentors. And for that, my heart overflows with gratitude.

Dealing with Anxiety

With the holidays right around the corner, family gatherings can sometimes bring more stress than joy. If you find yourself feeling that familiar wave of anxiety, you’re not alone. The good news is, God’s Word has real answers for our anxious hearts. I’ve linked a Bible study below that’s full of encouragement and practical tools — think of it as adding a few more tools to your toolbox for this holiday season.