Thankful. Part I

I am thankful for my parents.  All six of them.  

My mom and dad divorced when I was really young.  For a long time, I would imagine all of these crazy scenarios where they would get back together and my stepmom and stepdad would get married and live next door to us.  Crazy, I know.  But the fact was that no matter how badly I wanted a "normal" family, I also always wanted my stepparents to continue being a part of my life...a part of raising me and molding me into who I am today.  It feels strange to even type the words, stepmom, stepdad, stepparents...because they aren't step anything.  They are my parents in the same way that my mom and dad are.  And I can't imagine my life with their influences, their guidance, their love.

And now that I am an adult, I have no idea how my parents stayed together for as long as they did.  Really.  They are so completely opposite from one another.  Which, in turn, has made me a much more well rounded person.  

My mom and I talk on a daily basis.  Sometimes multiple times in a day.  If I have a joy or concern or need someone to laugh with or cry with...she is the first person that I call.  And I really don't know what I would do without her.  So let's not think about that.  Ok?  Ok.

Several years ago my world was rocked when my dad was diagnosed with cancer.  I have a hard time even typing that sentence without crying.  {Ugh.  Sheesh.  In a puddle over here.}  My dad is who I call when I need a laugh.  I get my ability to swear freely from him.  My dad also knows how to fix anything.  Seriously.  An.y.thing.  It's pretty amazing.  I also named my son after him (even prior to the whole cancer bit) because I love him.  Admire him.  Am proud of him. We have spent the past 26 years living 800 miles apart.  We talk often and it is always without bounds. 

 

{Don't you love how completely ridiculous my children look in this picture?  Awesome.}

I also consider Chris's parents to be my parents.  I can't tell you how many times I have called Sharon to ask her for opinions on parenting issues.  She is the first person I call when I have an illness question.  When Chan was cheering, there were several games when Ross went with me to support her while Chris was home with Quinn.  They are both amazing grandparents and amazing role models.

I am thankful for my parents.  All six of them.