Tuesday, March 20, 2018

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." - Anatole France * I didn't understand unconditional love until I was in charge of caring for another soul. If I was married and/or had children of my own, it may not have felt so significant- but in bringing Mia home I also brought home a feeling that was new to me. I didn't want to fail her and I wanted to make sure she knew she was loved. She became my world. I adore my niece and nephews, but know they are not my full responsibility. They have amazing parents and, to be honest, my job as their aunt is easy. I love and spoil them and then give them back. I've been blessed to watch them grow and am delighted by every soccer goal, LAX goal, Eagle Scout project, creative stories written in fun notebooks, rollercoaster rides, pictures of a beautifully dressed young woman and her dance dates, Ronald McDonald races for Gavin, piano recitals, hip hop dance recitals, and carefully crafted potions made by the mischievous caboose of my lucky 7. I'm a lucky lady. I guess it all comes down to family. I consider Mia and Beckerman family. Some of my closest friends fit the mold. All I know is my soul felt important when Mia became family and the feeling came back when we brought Beckerman home. To be surrounded by family, both human and furry, awakens my soul and makes my heart smile.


from Instagram