You’ve been inundated of late by posts about visits to and from my real family. They’re in the U.S. and I’m in Canada. Their voices on the phone are enough to give me a warm fuzzy. I’d love to have them nearer — however I believe parenting requires us to allow our children to go wherever their lives take them.
I’m still surrounded by a loving CHOSEN family — and each and everyone of them is precious as well.
Me, Rebecca and Brian celebrating my birthday (private joke)
It all began, I believe, with Brian, who lives in L.A. Lunatic that he is, he decided to adopt ME as a mother. His wife Rebecca qualifies as family because I know her since she was born and was always drawn to her. Brian is very funny and manages to make me laugh out loud with his clever emails.
Amy
Amy, my Chinese daughter, is more than a blessing. She loves and allows me the honor of being her ‘Canadian’ mom. No daughter could possibly be more devoted, caring and helpful and always there for me. I am also very proud of Amy and all she has accomplished on her own since she moved here.
Samantha and me celebrate my 80th
For about 18 years, beautiful Samantha has been a close and important addition to my home-made clan. After surgery, she came by to be sure I could make it in and out of my bathtub on my own. I made it! That was us you heard celebrating that achievement. Samantha is always willing to be helpful and loving. Like a daughter? Absolutely. Yes, good hugger too.
Vinson, looking serious, but he’s lots of fun
Then, there’s Vinson — proof you always get more than you give. I met Vinson because I volunteer in my community. He decided that since I already had a Chinese daughter, he ought to be able to be my Chinese son. No way! Vinson’s too young for that, so we settled on him being my Chinese grandson. He’s finishing his studies and is really a hoot even though he’s pretending to be very serious for this photo.
Vinson’s pal Andrew came into the picture and became part of our ‘family’.
Andrew knows a lot about technology — thank goodness
Andrew knows a heck of a lot more than I do about many things, especially technology. (Thinking about it, so do they all!) If you ever come over, try to get a hug from this guy. He gives the greatest! What can I say, love spreads like the flu — another wonderful grandson. He too chose to pose very seriously for this photo, but he knows how to smile.
Alison took this photo of us around Mothers Day this year
Alison is very special. I’m delighted to have found her. I didn’t have a granddaughter and now I do. Alison didn’t have a grandmother and, lucky for me, was willing to become a member of our CHOSEN family.
Each and every one of these wonderful young people bring joy and laughter into my life.
Nor does any of this diminish my love for my very own children and grandson. They are also well-loved and I’m sure they know it. Because they love me, they are glad to know I’m never lonely.
View from Over the Hill 
You know how to spread love! ❤
Maybe Jaya: I don’t quite understand what it is but I sure am lucky.
Who has ever understood what love is?! You give it and you get it back. You sure are one special lady, Muriel. Warm regards. 🌼
I am so grateful to all of my “adopted” family. I would worry a lot more about you, Maughm, if they were not there. I do wish I could be there myself day to day to help you with whatever you might need, but you have gathered such an incredible, loving, generous and kind group of people around you that I know you are not lonely! I think the quality of the people we attract says a whole lot about us… If that bunch of wonderful, warm-hearted crazies are a reflection of you, dear Maughm, you are definitely one special dame!
Thank you Susan: I know and I agree with you. Each one of my chosen family is fabulous and I am lucky to have them… Much love, Maughm
Hi Muriel. You’re a warm and open person. That’s why all of these people became part of your life.
For whatever reason — I am grateful for them. Plus, I forgot to say in my post that the guys are tall and can reach stuff high up on the top shelves in my closets — and they do so often.
Muriel…..It is obvious that you attract good people who enjoy being considered your good friends. You not only know how to make a friend. You know how to cultivate one. That is an art not a science. You have that gift. Lucky you.
Yes, if I have any such ability I did nothing to get it Joe: I imagine it’s more luck than anything else. All the best….
Hahaha what a beautiful post! So glad that my coworkers recommended that I interviewed you. They weren’t joking when they said youd be interesting. Lucky me to have a grandma like you
A likely story Vinson: I’m convinced they suggested me saying I was a nut. You only say this to try to make me feel better. However, my life IS better because you are in it and whatever the story is, I appreciate your caring always, and especially when I’ve needed it most. Love and hugs….