our family : gratitude and hope

dear family, 
sometimes I write letters to the lady but today I am going to write a letter to all of you. I think it's a thank-you letter because that is what I am: so thankful that each and every one of you are in my life, that you are my family.

we didn't start in the old-fashioned way, with the parents then the children -- we started with a single mum and her kid, and now here we are. two parents, three kids. a step parent, a step child, half siblings, full siblings. a baby, a teenager...sometimes it feels like there are so many of us!

it's not always easy being this many and it's not always easy to navigate our relationships. sometimes I struggle. I know sometimes it's hard for you too. these pictures don't show the toilet breaks and the tantrums, but of course you know there are plenty. sometimes there are tantrums in the toilet breaks, which is a young family kind of joy all of its own.

but there is also laughter and goofiness. tender moments and closeness. deep understanding and empathy. and so much love. 

I want you to know that everything that each of you are is special to me. I want you to know that though we may not always agree, I will always be on your side. I want you to know that no one can ever replace you.

 I want you to know that I feel fortunate beyond measure that you stick with me and keep loving me, and that you let me love you too. thank you.

{photographs of our family by the gorgeous seth and tenielle at feather and stone photography.}