Family

I've been thinking about this lately and thought I should write it down.

Almost 8 years ago we found out I was pregnant, and we were broker than broke. Our circumstances were pathetic, but we were determined to make it work out on our own and not ask for help from anyone. We were walking into a grocery store to get job applications, and my brother and his two kids were walking out at the same time and saw us. I remember he jokingly asked, "Are you guys here for the case lot sale, too?" and we told him we were looking for second jobs so we could buy me a new bra, since I was expanding all over. Ha ha, ha ha. He immediately turned around and started walking toward the ATM. I ran after him, telling him I didn't want his money, that we were grown-ups and could handle it, etc. etc. He looked at me and said, "Katrina, this is what families do- we help each other." He was going through a really bitter divorce at the time, so my logic told me that of all people, he should be exempt from helping me. Then I felt impressed that at that time, he needed to help. He told me that when he and his now ex-wife were expecting their first baby, they lived far away and didn't have family to help them. I remember standing there bawling my head off in the Macey's parking lot with my brother, thankful and humbled. I'll never forget that, ever.

I'm learning, little by little, how important family is. The family I come from is big and loud. My 4 older brothers beat the crap out of each other growing up. They chased my older sister around the yard with worms. They told me I'd die if I ate the chestnuts on the ground. Once I picked up a chestnut and thought just touching it would kill me. I went to my room and waited to die. When I was 5 and in ballet, one of my brothers called me a "rea-tard" whenever I wore my leotard. What a crack up, seriously. What would childhood be without sibling torture?

As adults, we disagree and don't always get along. We have our fair share of drama. But when it comes down to it, we're a family and we love each other no matter what. When times are tough, family is where we can turn for help and support. I know Nils feels the same way about his family. I've just been really thankful lately to be a part of two good families and to have that network of love and support.