After we made our way back inside, we settled down in front of the TV with Jude's family. I wasn't surprised by the cozy atmosphere, but I hadn't realized how much I missed the warmth of a simple, laid-back family gathering. I had been working in the South for some time, and because of that, trips up North were fewer and farther between than I would've liked. Sure, I had an aunt in the same city, but it never quite felt the same.
Family has always been at the center of my life, especially my grandfather. He stepped in as a father figure when my own father, burdened by work, chose to spend his evenings at cafés with friends rather than coming home at a decent hour, like a responsible adult should. Watching Jude's family interact reminded me of what I cherished most—those intimate bonds. The humor, the teasing between the siblings, and the way their parents spoke with equal pride about both Jude and Jobe. I could only imagine how valued they must feel in this tight-knit family.
