Family

Every January 1st, in addition to ringing in a New Year, our family is lucky to celebrate Aliya's birthday. 

While the gathering spanned many families, we were all one family - Aliya's family - today. Mom, dad, sister, aunties, uncles, cousins, grandmas, great grandmas, and more aunties and more uncles joined the celebration that was fit for a bright, beautiful 4-year-old. 

And the service for Aliya and one another was abundant. Everyone contributed to make this the perfect party. The house was cleaned, kept, and ready to host, the table was full of family-favorite dishes that everyone contributed, and Aliya had presents that she loved. One after another after another she opened them and gasped with excitement for her new toys.

Most of all, everyone took time out of their busy holiday season to come together to celebrate Aliya. We enjoyed one another's company, tag-teamed playing with the youngsters, shared in good conversation, and had many, many laughs.

Thanks to everyone who came out, not only to celebrate Aliya, but to also define the meaning of family: a diverse group of individuals who care for and serve one another, connected by a common bond - love.

Happy birthday, Aliya! Love, your family.