~ My Family ~
This list would not be accurate or complete without a mention to my family. My maternal grandparents (left) were a humble working class couple from Maine that raised three children to be responsible, faith filled people. They lived a life devoted to their children, their church, and their work. I remember my 'Grammie' as stern but kind and my 'Grampy' as loving, funny and extremely sweet. I was fortunate enough to have them in my life until my late 20's. They lived long enough to know my daughters and I am grateful for their memories.
My paternal grandparents (right) were also hard working, devoted to their church and to their very extended family. They both were from New York state and were raised by 2nd generation Polish and Irish (respectively) parents who taught them the value of their diligence while always keeping the love of family at the forefront. My 'Grandpa' died when I was only two years old but I have many wonderful stories of how much he loved me and how he had to make my Christmas with them (his last) as big and special as possible. He would entice my little two year old self to stay close to him by keeping a bag of M&M's in his pocket but only giving me one at a time so that I'd stay close by. My 'Grandma' was my little soul mate. Memories of her still bring tear to my eyes. She died when I was a sophomore in college and was the most special grandma a girl could have. She was the gold standard of grandmas. I'll need to leave it at that.
Fast forward a bit and my parents were born in 1941. My dad was the first born and my mom was the last born. My dad spent time during his childhood on a family farm and has so many wonderful (and crazy) stories to tell. He was surrounded by his siblings and many cousins that created lasting memories. My mom experienced a bit more of an urban childhood and enjoyed spending time on the Maine beaches with her friends and cousins.
In 1963 my parents were married and I was their first born.
This is me and my Grandpa (the one with the M&Ms)
This is me and my dad. (He's so handsome!)
My dad attended Cornell University and when he entered the working world he deiced to follow in his fathers footsteps and work for Lane Construction. My mom subscribed to the 'June Cleaver' housewife handbook and devoted herself to raising three children and taking care of her house and husband. We were all the better for it because during those early years we moved many times due to my dad's work and by the time I was nine years old I had lived in eleven different locations and had attended four different schools.
(My mom is pregnant with my sister in the picture...love that bouffant hair style!)
Eventually we found our way to Maine where I spent most of my childhood in a very traditional way...playing with friends, making forts, and sledding in the winter. After graduating from college, where I met my adoring husband, I got married. Here he is as a child....so cute!
We were married in 1988...
Have had two beautiful daughters....
They are quite a bit older than this now :-)
And carry on the legacy of hard work and devotion to church and family.
My family is My Favorite thing.
P.S. I would like to wish my 'baby' brother a very happy birthday. He turns 35 today!
