There’s Nothing Better Than Sharing My Baby With the People I Love
“They’re such a gift, aren’t they?” The voice came from behind me in the grocery line. I tried to keep…
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The Holiday Shop is Open!
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extended family
I’m Distancing Myself From My Dysfunctional Family
“You are an island, Melanie—an island alone!” she yelled at me. Her words were in part, a statement of what…
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A Grandmother Leaves an Imprint of Love
The last time I wrote about my grandmother was almost five years ago. It was the eulogy to be delivered…
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Home is Where You Make it—Even Without Family Nearby
It wasn’t a decision that was made lightly. I didn’t think it would be forever, maybe just temporary. Freshly married,…
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Even When Memory Fails, Love Remains
My great-grandmother lived a difficult life. She grew up during the Great Depression and its harsh aftereffects. Once married, her…
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My Mother-in-Law Doesn’t Like Me, But I Love Her Anyway
Dear mother-in-law, So many things I wished I could tell you. So many unanswered questions regarding our relationship, or lack…
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Dear Uninvolved Family, You Cannot Buy Our Love
Dear family who tries to buy love, instead of earning it: I was raised in an amazing family. There was…
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To the Mama Without a Village
When we are pregnant, we hear about this elusive village that will help raise, support, and mold our children. I…
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When Will I Get To Hug My Family Again?
I’m no stranger to feeling the sting of living cross country from my parents and sisters. But these past weeks?…
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Dear Modern, Busy People: Bring Back Family Gatherings
There has been a death. The death of the family gathering . . . As a youngster, I have vivid…
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