All In the Family

We have just hosted back-to-back family weekends here in Lafayette.

The first was the McDaniels family reunion. Donna's mom's side of the family have been getting together annually since her grandmother passed away. Most of the family is from North Louisiana, but part of the family is from Mobile, Alabama. Last year I suggested that Lafayette might be a good meet in the middle location and they took me up on it. It was great to hang out with Donna's immediate family along with her aunts, uncles, cousins and their families. We must have done a decent job hosting the get together because they have agreed to meet up in Lafayette again next year! 

Next, we hosted my cousin, Greg Ables and his mom, my Aunt Carolyn. Greg preached for me at Crossroads on Sunday and did an amazing job! Last year I had the distinct honor - along with another cousin, Rusty Blan - of officiating my Uncle Vernon's funeral. It was one of the greatest honors of my life. My Uncle Vernon was such a hero to me! He and Greg had come down several years ago and tag-team preached at one of our Fathers Day services. They preached on spiritual legacy - It was SO good! While we were in Tulsa for the funeral I told Greg I really wanted him to come back down to Lafayette and preach for me again. I'm so glad he agreed to come and that my Aunt Carolyn could come along with him. 

My brother Phil and his family came down to visit while Greg and Aunt Carolyn were here and we had an incredible time! We shared lots of laughs and sweet memories. I am so thankful for the incredible family God has given me both on my side and Donna's side! Other than God Himself, nothing in this life is more important than our family! I have always felt that way but as I get older, it has become more and more real to me!