Old Friends You Just Haven't Met Yet

On Saturday we had dinner at my parents' house with my brother, his wife, and their two kids. They live in Georgia. For those who don't know me IRL, I live in New York. I have seen my brother and sister-in-law twice in the six years they have lived in GA. I met my nephew, Brayden (3 yrs), once when he was four months old. I have never met my niece, Payton (almost 2 yrs). None of them have met Giuliana. For that matter, my brother has only met John once. So, to say a family reunion was needed is a major understatement.

The kids were timid at first. They all hugged tight to various parents and looked suspiciously at each other. We broke the ice with a double-feature of Blue's Clues and then I dragged out the dress-up bag. No one can resist the allure of pretty hats, scarves, necklaces, and bracelets. Within minutes they were playing side-by-side. Still a little wary, but working it out.

Brayden and his daddy, my brother, Andy.

Brayden, still snuggly, with his mommy, Kristin.

Giuliana still a bit bashful, hanging close to my dad, but almost playing with Payton.

Not yet playing together, but not clinging to an adult either. Progress.

Even Brayden couldn't resist the call of the "pretties."


And we have smiles. Sure, they're back with their parents, but still...smiles. I'd say they're on their way to becoming friends.