I have a lot of sympathy for families that aren’t dysfunctional; if in fact, such an entity exists. As a familial unit we have weathered some pretty severe storms, though our little unit soldiers on. I had the unexpected pleasure of spending Saturday with my ex-husband, my eldest daughter and her new partner. I suppose there is a lot of social commentary hidden in that remark and no doubt the hit TV series “Modern Family” has something to do with the emergence of acceptance for slightly off-center definitions of the American Family.
Regardless, you reach a point in life where those small beings under foot all day are suddenly adults, beyond your clutches and impact. They are people moving through life in their own style and following their own paths. There is no denying I was blessed to have a wonderful partner during those early years. To be able to come together again, after all our personal disappointments, and laugh with such ease at simple things is my greatest reward this new start to the year.
I hope I’m right in thinking he won’t take offense if I post this funny series of shots. Lexie was expounding on something, probably explaining the twenty-year old “Labradorable” mug’s history as Jeffrey poured tea. Handsomest man I know and best of all, we shared some wonderful years. If ever I were to marry again (which is not in the cards, trust me on this one) and he would have me…
Four people who share not only DNA but a host of memories, though some’s recollections are vastly different on the details than mine. We find ourselves living four separate lives, these days. When we do come together it is with all our scabs and scars, all our secrets and nightmares. To remember that we four are the only beings alive who have the power to forgive, forget and soothe those pains, is what it means to be a functional family.
I searched for an old photo of the four of us… Someone had to hold the camera…
Martinique
Then I found this later shot – no idea who was behind the camera on this one:
Arizona ’01
Yes, we have all grown so much…
WONDERFUL!!!! Great family photos! Lex has a beautiful smile. Jeff has always had great eyes! LOL.
We are a motley crew, right?
Nice. I notice the LBI sweatshirt in the last pic. That’s a special place for me. Do you still go there?
Sadly I have not been back in years. Loved it and have wonderful memories…and I still have that sweatshirt!
This is really great. I love the story and the opening line is one I wish I had myself. I am just starting to blog my Memoir which will be loaded with anecdotes about my dysfunctional family too
You might find it amusing
alan
Thanks Aladec! I will check it out.
Your post serves to remind me that our own little unit of dysfunctional characters are, by no means, unique. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
I guess being dysfunctional isn’t all that unique, Julie. But we are all uniquely dysfunctional!
A great commentary on family. I think even “perfect” families have some dysfunction. Love the funny faces!
Ha Laura, when you find a “perfect” family, please let me know…they should be showcased as truly unique!!
I’m surprised that pictures of my family aren’t in the dictionary next to the word dysfunction, but you’ve just got to love them anyhow.
Yes, you do have to love them now don’t you? Where would we be without our relations to keep us scratching our heads!
Wow, with that haircut Lexie reminds me of a very old picture I have of Barbara.
Rather a dysfunctional family than a boring one I think. Mine are a motley crew too but I guess that’s what makes us interesting. It’s good that you can remain friends with your ex, not often that happens.
Indeed, I am lucky that we are not only civil but can enjoy each other’s company. As to your “motley crew” label – it fits us perfectly too!!