This past weekend I went on an incredible mini-getaway with the beautiful ladies of my mother’s side of the family, the Zimmer gals.

We spent three days together at this cozy chalet in Collingwood, Ontario.

The weekend really exemplified the power of family.

Throughout my entire life my extended family has meant so much to me. As an only child I really relied on having my family as people to learn from and help me grow. Without family I do not know who I’d be.

I’m incredibly blessed as both sides of my family are filled with strong, passionate, creative, genuine, hilarious, smart women who have shown me how to become a women myself. And how did they help me you ask? By showing their love for me.

My family has taught me one of the most valuable feelings in life, love. Loving each other, loving the world, loving life, and loving unconditionally.

Now I understand that not every family is picture perfect. But whether or not you have a close relationship with your family members they have somehow taught you how or how not to love others.

Family is important, it keeps you grounded and humble. Family helps make the tough times not so tough, and the good times turn into great times.

Reflect back to a time when your family was there for you during a troubling experience. Now think of a time they were there during a grand experience. How would those two experiences differ had you not had the love of your family during that time?

I challenge you to tell someone (your parent, aunt, uncle, cousin, sibling, grandparent etc.) that you appreciate them and why you appreciate them.

And to finish this post I’d like to quote one of my favourite blue Disney characters…

“Ohana means family. And family means no one gets left behind, or forgotten.”

– Liv