Family

Growing up, I cherished family. There were always gatherings and we were always together at some point. Though we were so dysfunctional with many problems, I could always enjoy those family moments.

After high school, I distanced myself. I moved out at 17 and started going my own way. I would only work and attend school. Now that I look back, it seems like I was isolated. I would always make up an excuse, such as I worked too much or that I was studying. The truth was though, I simply abandoned my family.

It is astonishing how a hardship can pull each member of the family closer. With the sharing of our infertility story, I felt like the family had the secret to our life. I feel more whole and comfortable every time that I let a family member in. So much love can be discovered once you connect more with your blood relations. Upon the diagnosis of my aunt's breast cancer, I decided that I needed to spend time with not only my immediate family, but my family on all sides, including my in laws.

Recently, I have had some amazing times with my immediate family on my mother's side. We have enjoyed the beach, a cruise, and the recent holidays together. Here are some lovely pictures that keep reminding of those wonderful times:

Before the cruise



Thanksgiving



Christmas

Beach in September

 

After the diagnosis, I decided to spend more time with my father's side of the family. We were so close after my mother and he split, but lost touch after. The perfect time to bond has come again. We always spent holidays and special occasions together, such as graduations. I hope to spend many more days celebrating and laughing with this side. I especially want to bound more with my auntie. I have faith that she will beat this horrible cancer, but if she does not I want to be able to say that I got to know her and love her unconditionally. Here are some pictures from our recent get together yesterday for my little cousin Cevion's 6th birthday (his grandma is my aunt):

 

 

You should value family. You should never hold grudges and pass up the moments that you will have to spend with them. When a family member is  gone, there will be regrets and missed moments. I wish to have no regrets. I want to say that I was able to know every family member that I could. Some how I aim to include my in laws in this quest for a connection. It is so hard to find a way to connect with them outside of holidays. I aim to get this ball started. Though it may be a challenge, I am up for it. I just need to keep remembering that family is everything and my love for them is unconditional.

~Until next time