There’s always that cousin in the family who feels more like a sibling.
You grew up together, created countless memories, got into trouble and generally felt in sync.
No matter what happens around you, your bond goes beyond just sharing an aunt or uncle.
It is important to reflect on who this cousin is to you and how you love and celebrate with each other daily.
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are a few ideas to celebrate occasionally, especially on this National Cousins Day.
The Importance of Cousins
What is your best memory with your favorite cousin(s)?
I shared laughter, growth, pain and gained insights into the male perspective by spending time with my male cousins.
Cousins can play a meaningful role in our lives, providing a connection and a shared history. This bond is often forged at Granny’s house, during family reunions, or while visiting each other’s homes. You may even have gone to school together.
Cousins are the friends we grow up with, the ones who understand our family dynamics and share in our collective memories.
The bond between cousins can be powerful, rooted in familial ties and personal connections. They are our partners in crime during childhood adventures or our confidants during family gatherings. Often, they can become our lifelong friends.
Ways to Celebrate National Cousins Day
Host a Family Reunion: Organize a family gathering where cousins can reminisce and create new memories, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park or a formal dinner. Spending time together in person is a beautiful way to celebrate.
Plan a Virtual Get-Together: If distance makes it challenging to meet in person, arrange a virtual get-together. Use video conferencing tools like Zoom to catch up, share stories and enjoy each other’s company. You can even play online games or have a virtual movie night.
Create a Cousins Scrapbook: Collect photos, letters and mementos highlighting your shared experiences. Creating a scrapbook together can be a fun project that brings back fond memories and solidifies your bond.
Take a Trip Down Memory Lane: Share old photos and videos with a cousin or a group of them and tell childhood stories. This nostalgic activity can spark laughter and deepen your connection as you recall the fun times you’ve had together.
Send a Thoughtful Message or Gift: If you can’t be with your cousins on National Cousins Day, send them a heartfelt message or a small gift. A handwritten letter, a personalized gift or a simple card can convey your appreciation and love.
Organize a Cousins’ Day Out: Plan an outing to a place you all enjoy, such as an amusement park, beach, hiking trail or a favorite restaurant. Spending the day together doing something fun can strengthen your bond and create new memories.
Cook or Bake Together: If you love cooking or baking, spend the day in the kitchen together. You can recreate family recipes, try new dishes or have a friendly cooking competition.
Watch a Movie or TV Marathon: Pick a series of movies or TV shows you and your cousins enjoy and spend the day binge-watching them together. Whether a childhood favorite or a new series, it’s a great way to relax and bond.
Participate in a Shared Hobby: Engage in a hobby you and your cousins enjoy, whether it’s sports, crafting, gaming or gardening. Doing something you love together can strengthen your connection and provide lots of fun.
Create a Tradition: Start a new tradition you can look forward to each year, whether it’s a specific activity, a special meal, or a unique celebration. Having a tradition can make National Cousins Day even more meaningful.
The Importance of Family Bonds
In today’s developing world, losing touch with extended family members can be effortless.
People grow apart or only see each other during happy celebrations or sad moments. National Cousins Day serves as a reminder to maintain and cherish these relationships. Whether through a phone call, a video chat or a simple message. Taking the time to reach out can make a significant difference and reaffirm the importance of family connections.
This day is significant for appreciating your special bond with your cousins. On July 24 and throughout the year, reach out to your cousins, reminisce about the good times and create new memories.
Show the next generation of your family members the importance of staying close.