Family. For me, family has always been more than just flesh and blood relatives. I have a stepmother, stepfather, stepsister, stepbrother & a half-sister. Not to mention all the extended step-family that comes along with two remarried parents. That’s not even counting the in-laws.
But that’s not what I’ve brought you here to talk about.
I never quite felt like I belonged in my family. I’m different from most of them. My values & likes & dislikes don’t fall in with my nearest relations. When I was in high school I formed a new family. I had more in common with some of my adolescent friends than I ever had with my relatives. To this day some of my old friends are more family to me than my actual family.
When I met my husband I formed a new family. Not just him and our son, but also the close friends that I made over the years. I have found people that I have only known for a few years that love me unconditionally (unlike some lifelong family members that will remain nameless – in this post, at least).
Now my life has been completely thrown for a loop. My wonderful little family is slightly broken, I’ve been back with my actual family & my beautiful extended family seems to be out of reach. I know they’re there, I just can’t seem to connect with them.
The more time I spend with la famiglia pazza, the more my tolerance ebbs. I miss the cozy little family I had created for myself.
I don’t know where exactly I fit in there with you, since I’ve been around since college, but I’m here! And I saw Joel and Kristi and Stella on Saturday and they asked about you! (well, not Stella, mostly she just cooed and stared at the pretty lights). So we’re here for you whenever you need us!
I, um, will be in the hospital next week birthing Henry so I doubt I’ll be “around” around, but you can always call
Love you!!
Of course you’re my family. I love you like a sister. Always have. Can’t wait to meet Mr. Henry!