Family connections

I stayed on own on New Year's day for many years, but I went to lunch with my older sister and her children today.

She has a son and a daughter.

I didn't see them for a decade by circumstance, so I was sometimes concerned about how they were doing.

To my delight, I see my nephew every once in a while since my father passed away last summer.  My father's funeral brought me to reuniting my nephew for the first time in 14 years!

I was so happy to see my niece today.  She really grew up!

I gave them otoshidama, New Year's money.

We had a good time having sukiyaki, thin slices of beef and pork cooked with vegetables at the table in soy sauce, sake and sugar.

Today I realized the importance of maintaining family connections.

I am thankful for restoring ties with my family.

★Today's choice:
  I decided to see my sister and her children today instead of tomorrow.
  How successful was this choice?   10 out of 10.
  It is really nice to see someone important to me on New Year's day.