Modern Family

So now you know a little about me. I know it doesn't really seem like much. Kids, husband, school. But we're not a typical family. We are a family of six. My husband is not the father of either of my children and his children, who do not live with us, almost call me their step-mom. As little as four years ago, there were four of us in the house, none with the same last name. It confused the heck out of teachers, but we managed to get by.

Malcolm is my 11 year old. 11 and 9 months if you ask him. He and I have had the privilege of growing up together. I was too young when I had him, but I think we made it work. Mac's father still plays a big role in his life. More than I'd like sometimes, but that's just how it is. Mac is smart. Very smart. But a few things try to hold him back. We just work through them and make life all it can be.

Sean is my baby. My 10 year old baby. He is at least 2 inches taller than his big brother and about 30 pounds heavier. Not much of a baby. He came around when I was too young, too. His father was a dear man who passed away before Sean was even two. To make up for this fatherlessness, Sean captures the heart and admiration of all men who have been placed in his life. I don't think it would be possible for a father to love a child more than his Grandaddy or his step-father do.

Both of my boys are amazing, a blessing in my life, and keep us all laughing.

Forest brought twin boys to the table, William and Andrew. While the boys haven't played a big role in our lives, their existence sure has. It has played out like a really bad, unbelievable soap opera. I love those boys dearly and wish I could have been in their lives more. They're 16, nearly 17, and don't have much room for me, but they know I'll always be there if they need me.

More about Forest. He is a decade older than me! He doesn't like it when I put it that way. Says it makes him feel old. But the fact remains that he is 10 years older than me. The age thing occasionally puts an interesting spin on things (like when we're out and people think I'm his daughter). He also has the honor of being the youngest of 11 children. Yes, I said 11. He didn't grow up with them all and is half-brother to 8 of his siblings. He is closest to the 3 youngest sisters. But he is definitely the baby.

Forest and I have been married for almost 4 years now. First marriage for both of us. The ceremony took place in my mother's living room and was preformed by my Grandfather. Not much of a wedding but a great start to our marriage! We both come from our own nontraditional pasts, our own bad decisions, and our own ideas of how things should be. Our marriage has been far from perfect but we are deeply in love! People looking from the outside can't always see what it is that we have, but it is amazing!

So, that's us. The modern family. Not always the things hopes and dream are made of, but it is just right for me! These 2, 3, or 5 creatures, in any combination, feed my chaos, and I wouldn't have it any other way!!