Three real-life sisters sharing their kids' antics, milestones and adventures through this crazy journey called motherhood. Find out more »
Archives
See our topics »
Home »
"We" are Family
Every family needs another family to show up at just the right time for all the right reasons. Sometimes you need an extra little sister, so your youngest gets a chance to be the older, helpful one. Sometimes you need someone who's just a little bit wiser than you are to remind you you know exactly what to do.
Moira and L. are dear friends like that to each one of us in the Lemen household. A chance meeting years ago has lead to the kindest and most nurturing of bonds and everyday we are so thankful that our paths crossed so long ago. L. can hang out with Carter in ways that mystify and amaze me--their connection is so true. Moirita wouldn't be the sweet, wild girl she is today without Dave, her favorite "tio." And L. is my rock of Gibraltar when I hit my parenting or personal lows. She knows exactly how to get me through.
These bonds came to us slowly, over time, over many meals, more messes, a few tears and much fun. The bigger our sense of "we" the more space we were able to make for our families to include one another in ways that make all of our lives richer.
Is there someone who is inside your family's definition of "we"? Tell us who your near and dear ones are in the comments below.
About PBS Parents | Site Map | Privacy Policy | Contact PBS Parents | ¿Habla Español? | PBS.org
© PBS 2003 - 2009, all rights reserved
2 Comments
Oh, this tugged at my heart strings and reminded me to be patient. Having recently moved 8 and a half hours from my family and "chosen family" I find myself longing for the comfort of those who know me best and love me despite it all! I look forward to growing more friendships here in my new world.
I'll tell you later Betty
My sweet, sweet nephew who has lived with me for over a year...He has so many connections in the community - stops to wave at Sandy in the hairdresser's, helps with the baskets at the Greengrocer, must know all of the people working at the coffeeshop. Above all, he has "his Kathy" who is one of my go-to friends. We spend summer days at the shore together. He knows where all of the leftover toys are at her house. He calls her on his pretend Power Rangers cell phone. I knew it was official when he was playing and pretending and said, "If there's a 'mergency, you gotta call your mama, or your gramma, or your Kathy." And I cried for the happiness of chosen family bonds.
Leave a comment
Ground Rules for Posting:
Note: Only your name will appear alongside your comments; your e-mail address will be kept private. The advice and opinions expressed here are those of the authors, not PBS Parents.