Jessica and I are cousins because are mothers are sisters. We share a deeply rooted Midwestern ancestry. We spent the past week side by side with my parents making the family rounds in Minnesota (and then just hop across the river!) and Wisconsin. Family, food, mosquitoes, greenery, beer, guns, barns, summer nights, American flags.

I very much needed to replenish my soul with the warmth only family can provide. Hugs for days and giant laughs in the belly. I still can’t believe the crazy generosity our (very large) family provides. Thank you. Thank you for life. And thank you for teaching us how to live it.