Family has always played a huge role in my life. My parents each have 8 siblings and, consequently, I have quite a few relatives (esp. cousins!). Most of 'em live around West Coast BC (others over in S. Africa, HK, Phillipines -- sp??) and I guess I've been totally surrounded by numerous blood relatives since birth. My maternal grandmother's siblings also live in the area, which broadens the numbers and generations even more!

The trend in my family: the men die early while the women live long, grumpy, unhealthy lives. My dad's father passed away when he was only 5 -- actually, he never even met his father because of Communist obstacles, but that's a whole other story. My other grandfather died a year before my parents wed, so I've never met either of my granddads. However, the women on the other hand have always been too mean to die! =D Well, not really... But at least two of my great-grandmothers were still alive during my lifetime -- that was rather cool.

The people of both sides of my extended family can be fairly petty, defensive, moody, and downright stubborn -- I think it might even be genetic! People talk behind each other's backs, conceal huge secrets from each other, fly through dramatic mood swings (often quite snippy), hurt each other's feelings, etc. Impatience and short tempers definitely run in the family. At a single family gathering, you can get tears, laughter, screaming, hugs, lies, truths, cold and warm feelings all in the same night -- it's happened!

Nevertheless, blood is thicker than water and even though, at one point in time, the people of my family may not like each other or agree with what someone is doing with his/her life, the love is always there. We're there for each other when most needed (one of my cousin's even said he'd beat up my boyfriend if he ever hurt me. ;P) and I know I can count on them.

Momma & Daddy. I'll always be their baby girl. =P

Stevie. My one & only, two-years older brother. He played Barbies with me when I was a kid. =D

AH: Sorry I'm always so busy, but you've always been an awesome confidante, someone I can trust. Thanks for understanding. Luv ya, always.

The rest of the clan: You've all touched my life in some way and I appreciate the role you've all played in my life, big or small. Don't worry about me, y'all; I know where I wanna go and I ain't gonna give up trying without a fight! All the way...