Clearing the Air, the next chapter

I know I promised at the end of what I posted yesterday that I'd have something light and chipper for today, and I do. However, until I conquer the challenge of posting a picture, my words wouldn't make any sense. (any help from you bloggers who aren't stuck riding the little bus on this would be appreciated)

As I began receiving comments on my previous posts, I had to pause to absorb the huge amount of love that seemed to attack me from my computer screen. It was truly overwhelming. But, though I was immensely moved by your words, I also know I must clarify a few things..

(oh no.. Here comes another rant)

I did not become a part of this blog-o-sphere in an attempt to garnish praise or blow my own horn. I do not seek any admiration or recognition. And I don't for a minute think I deserve a party any more than any of you do. I started blogging as a way to open up dialect between myself and those I care about, and not just between myself and others, but also in hope that we'd all finally be able to speak more honestly with each other.

(Being as most of those reading this are members of my family, I address the rest of this post to you.)

From where I stand, and correct me if I'm wrong, the way I see it is this- We have all been through hard times and, while the love in our family has never been in question, sometimes it's hard to believe that we can reach out to each other for support without fear of judgment or rejection. Some of us have, in silence, battled drugs, alcohol, and depression. We have bravely faced unexpected and much loved additions. And, though it's never easy to accept, sometimes the story doesn't end "happily ever after". As big as this family is, and as much love as we have for each other, to think that even one of us has ever had to cope through a difficult situation alone should be unacceptable! And whether we've broken a finger nail or feel like the world is crumbling around us, we need to know we can turn to each other for anything.

This summer as we gather in AZ for the grand camp out adventure, let's have a party for all of us! May I suggest the night of the 27th, being as that is my birthday :) Oh, and pen-nut's anniversary too! (How kind of everyone to be gathering to celebrate our special day with us :) ) Once the short people (oh, sorry hairball, let me correct that). Once the younger crowd has been tucked in, let us all gather around with our drink of choice and toast each other. For, though none of us are flawless, I would argue that we are all "uniquely perfect"! And that is cause for great celebration....

I love you guys!!!