“There’s a unique kind of joy,” my sister mused, “when extended family and true friends gather. Even romantic love can’t compete with it.”
The Germans call it gemutlichkeit, the Danes: hygge (HOO-ga)– “a warm, cozy time with friends and family and the feelings you get being together.” No direct translation exists in English, but I imagine the Italians their own word for the joy of cheerful, honest, loving relationships.
Gabe can do no wrong in his little cousins’ eyes.
Even his guitar practice is fascinating.
And Mary worships Zoe.
Lego heaven.
Indulging in Sammy’s pie shakes– a milkshake blended with an entire piece of pie
the costumed cleaning brigade
the 8th graders bonding over Taylor Swift trivia
Three little boys slept in one twin sized bed every night (but I never did capture a photo of all three).
I’d like to learn the word for this sort of joy in every language– but sometimes a photo truly is worth a thousand words.
house of 7
you take the most amazing shots! is that your sister? you guys look so much alike! what a fun fun time to spend with your family.
Kristin
My kids LOVED the costumed cleaning brigade. Inspiration to make our next round of clean-up more like a Mary Poppins game than a Miss Hannigan scrub-down.
Tracy
There is nothing like a cousin. love these!!!
Lisa
Oh I loved learning about the meaning of hygge, as I am Danish! And you are right, there is no word like it in English. The costumed cleaning brigade is brilliant…who thought that up?
Judi
I am tryihg to think what the work would be in Italian…I’m going to say…felicita’ (happiness), pace (peace), and gioia (joy). There really is nothing more than the pictures you posted.
You have a lovely family…and your son will do an amazing job. You can see the peace love and joy already in his eyes.
I sent you an email. I hope you got it…
jennie w.
How appropriate that Zoe have that name. She looks so much like your mother!
jennie w.
What if Zoe is on your husband’s side and it’s merely coincidence that she looks like your mother and now I’ve just made an idiot of myself. Sigh.
Michelle
You’re right Jennie– Zoe is my sister’s daughter and looks very much like my mother.
martha corinna
I’m catching up on all of your posts. I hope you are well!
The photos are all so beautiful.
Rachelle
Your photos warm my heart every single time. A balm for the soul. Your sister’s quote at the top is perfect and so true. She has your smile. Cute.
Teachinfourth
The vivid images you have here are amazing! I love the idea of dressing up in costumes to clean…awesome.
BTW, I came here via a link from DWTM. I hadn’t been to her blog in quite a while and followed the link.
You have skills…