Let me introduce you to my new family!!!

So, for those of you who are not yet informed, my parents are (and have been)living in Brisbane, Australia. My dad works there and will probably be there for quite a while longer. My mom moved out there a few months ago and loves it, so I doubt she'll be back anytime soon, too! So, with my real family being gone, I have been getting closer and closer to Michael's family. Over the last 6 months they have slowly become like real family to me - we even spent thanksgiving together! So, I feel that it is only right that I introduce you to them!
Meet Patty!!!
She will HAVE MY NECK if she finds out that I put this picture up, but it is the perfect picture - she absolutely loves me and I absolutely love her back!!! Michael and I go over for dinner occasionally, I'm baking her cookies today, she likes to giggle and whisper with me about things Michael does, she affirms me in so many ways, and she is so excited about Michael and I's relationship. She is always noticing things and, like a real mom, is always asking me how I am and if I need anything. I am always welcome to her apartment whenever, on short notice, or on no notice at all... with or without her son lol!!! She is the best!

Meet Tracy and John!

Tracy is Michael's older sister and John is her husband - relative newlyweds - like a year and some... Tracy was homecoming queen her senior year and I understand completely why! She is bubbly, exciting, funny, burps like a pro (in this family, that's a MUST) and she is very smart - an English major *wink* working on her masters. They live in Ypsilanti, Michigan, so I don't get to spend as much time with them as I would like, but it is good when they're around. In case you were wondering, yes... we are playing aggravation in this picture.. it was a very intense game!!

The only one I don't have a picture of is Michael's dad, Gary. He isn't around a lot because he drives a truck all around the country. But he is the type that when he is home you know it! lol - he cracks me up! He's so serious about everything and he is always getting on your case about something that you either didn't do at all, didn't do right, or didn't do well enough!! He's a gruff guy but you can tell sometimes that he is really just a softy deep down.. you can see it in his eyes when I make him laugh. He is very smart, though, and is always looking to find how something can be improved or wants to build something. He slightly reminds me of my own dad, but I think that's just something that dads develop - that "dad" quality...

So, now you've met them. Aren't they wonderful? I think so, too!

Oh, you want one more picture do you? OK. - Thanksgiving at Uncle Craig's house:

Bonn Appetite!