the FUN cousins

The Bachs are known in our house as the “fun cousins.”

When we are together, regardless of the season, the kids are barefoot, there is always running, often jumping, and before our visit is over we are entertained by a theatrical performance complete with costumes and dramatic lighting.

We adore each and every one of our cousins, but my kids are the oldest when it comes to their immediate first cousins – by a good 6 to 13 years. So, insert some second cousins. (Okay, help me out here – I never did understand the family tree past second cousins. The two dads are first cousins, that would make the kids second cousins to each of the dads – what are the kids to each other?)

Regardless of the relations. They are here in Puerto Rico this week. And we are having FUN!

This year our motley crew hits the ages: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13. Perfect for adventures, sleepovers and mischief.

The kiddos

As I type this post, I am sitting on my balcony overlooking the beach. Not just because I enjoy the beautiful view, or the tropical breezes. (Although it is a spectacular day.)

Spectacular Day

And not just because it is a perfect spot to sip my tea and drown out the noise from the 7 kids inside our little apartment.

I am sitting out here to keep an eye on the biggest cousins – yes the two 40-something boys who are out exploring.  There is an island off of our beach called Isla Verde (Green Island.) Surrounding the small island are reefs and beds of seaweed. Yesterday involved a swim with a friendly manatee. Today they are out on an adventure, and I am keeping an eye on them – just in case I need to report to the authorities the last place I saw their bodies.

Isla Verde

Unlike many families, we don’t see our relatives very often. Geographical constraints due to Air Force assignments, means we have never lived closer than 8 hours away from any of our immediate family. This makes gatherings even more valuable. It also means that time is of the essence and we pack in the fun. During the last few days we have been:

Night Kayaking

Checking out views (from stomach wrenching heights)

Tormenting Iguanas

Wearing pigeons

Chasing Waterfalls

Exploring Dungeons

And just enjoying general togetherness

Tomorrow we will spend a full day at sea – sailing, snorkeling and I am sure there will be some sort of diving contest off the boat.

And then we will say goodbye. Exhausted and filled with wonderful memories.

I hope that in years to come, when they are old like their dads, that seeing each other will always be special. That time together will bring their childhoods back to life.

I am off to pack a cooler of drinks for an afternoon in the sand. No worries – the big kids are back safe and sound.