These are my main people
I come from a pretty big family, although, to me it often feels small. I have four siblings - Spencer (far left), Mitchell (far right), Lauren (middle left), and Cooper (middle). Now obviously, I did not name the two other beautiful women in the picture above. You probably have already guessed that they are my brothers 'special friends', and you're right! These two women are my new and lovely sisters. Heather (far left), recently got married to Spencer and they are expecting their first born in June, 2019! We are so excited to welcome their precious and already so loved little girl into the world. Brittany (far right), is engaged to my brother Mitchell. Their wedding will be June 27th, 2020 (three days after my 21st birthday!).
There is a verse in the Bible that I think demonstrates pretty accurately the central theme that my family demonstrates. It says this, “Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged” (Colossians 3:18-21).
Now, you may be wondering what in the world I mean by saying this verse demonstrates my family's central theme, but let me explain it! I have grown up in a home where my dad fiercely, diligently, and evidently loves my mother, and my mom equally loves him while obediently and respectfully submitting to him, as it pleases the Lord. Lastly, my parents.. oh man, I am starting to cry while reflecting on this, but they have loved so graciously and passionately while raising us in the presence of the Lord. In my eyes, I see a perfect balance between the unconditional love and discipline they so precisely use with us five kids. It is truly an honor to call John and Tammy McCosh my mom and dad.. the two people that fell in love twenty-six years ago and started a wonderful life for my siblings and me.
I hope that you got and still get to experience a tight knitted bond of love and respect between you and your family. And if you did not, I pray that you open your heart and mind to see the love our Heavenly Father has for you! I pray that you may run to him with arms wide open of repentance and neediness. He loves you more abundantly than any earthly father, mother, brother, or sister ever could!
Alright, alright. Now I want to just share a couple of my absolute favorite and most precious memories I have with these extraordinary people!
The first memory that immediately comes into my head is about ten years ago, and actually it's more like a chain of memories rather than just one. Can you guys imagine what happens when four fun-seeking, adventurous kids are left home alone.. two of which are teenage boys that find complete joy in air-soft guns and tormenting their little sisters? Yup, you got it! We would sometimes be their practice targets or they would so generously let us have a shot at them every once in a while, but don't be fooled, Lauren and I got the less powerful gun. So we made this deal since we played their game, they had to play "house" with us, but they refused to play any girly game so they made up a game called "five" - because there is five of us kids. Clever, right? In the game we would pretend that we were under attack and the big boys would always swoop in and save the day!
Honestly, I have never really thought about this before, but to this day my big brothers are some of my biggest protectors. I wholeheartedly know that if my sister and I were actually in danger or just even emotionally hurting because of someone else's actions, they would still swoop in and defend us.
FAMI
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Ah, sweet friendship is one of my favorite things! I mean like seriously friends bring so much joy into our lives - sure conflict arises sometimes, but we usually always get over it, right? Think about your friends, current ones, those from years ago, and even those that only get to see once in a great while. Now answer this; don't you get a little happier thinking about them? I hope you do! I cannot stress enough how much joy my dear friends, or any relationship bring me!
I truly believe that God brings us certain friends, at certain times, for a specific purpose - and that purpose often involves growing closer to Him. One of his forms of communication is through others. Whether it is through their actions that we learn from later, or immediate encouragement or instruction they share with us. We also grow closer to Christ by serving our friends. I love getting to serve them through words and doing things for them.
Anyway, I have been extremely blessed in my friendships throughout all of my life. I am not even kidding you. My childhood best friend and I were born on the same exact day - how many people can say that? I'm guessing not many. Ever since, I have continued to have amazing friends that I could not imagine life without.
I like to think that I have a lot of friends, but I also include the people that I consider friends and they might not consider me one too, you know what I mean? I bet you do the same thing! Anyway, I have so many friends from all different locations and backgrounds because of all the opportunities I have had to meet people.
You see, I am from a small town and therefore, all of my friends have pretty much been the same my whole life until working at Camp Shamineau and college. I adore these beautiful souls that I got to grow up with and experience so many special events with like prom, high school sports, homecoming, snoball, bonfires, oh the list goes on, but I think you get the point. Each of these girls have helped mold who I am today.
I then went on to work at Camp Shamineau this past summer (2018), and met many more amazing humans! Instead of sharing the same love for high school and sports, we shared a desire to share Jesus with little children! In a different way than in high school, my friendship with these fellow believers was unique and eternal. We learned to lean on each other and the strength of Jesus to get through those long exhausting, but oh so amazing weeks.
Lastly, I have met equally beautiful humans at college this year! From my teammates to my the people I have met in class. I was really nervous to go to school where I did not know anyone, but truth be told, it was amazing meeting all new people.
Lauren is full of determination and thrives at almost whatever she does. She inspires me everyday to be more energetic and view each day optimistically.
Sister
Lauren Kate
Ali is the kind of person everyone gravitates to because of her genuine and spunky soul. She is full of contagious energy and love.
Friend
Ali Miller
Madeline is one of a kind. Her passion for life and the way she pursues others is so admirable. She is the kind of friend you can count on for anything.
Friend
Madeline Poulos
Emma & Abbey are two beautiful, sweet and sassy twins that I adore. They are the first to step up and help others out in a time of need. They make life a little brighter every day.
Twin Cousins
Emma & Abbey
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Jordan is beautiful - inside and out. Her love for the Lord shines bright and she is always faithful to her friends and family.
Friend