Learning By Example

Growing up I always had my Mom and Dad in my life. They were two pees in a pod. Was that pod perfect, no but it was all I knew. I learned how other parents treated their kids when I would spend time at my friends homes. I knew right away there were techniques of parenting that were very different than mine. I picked up great family team building tips, that I stored in my brain folders, that I would be using when I had my own children. I started using them at home without anyone asking where or how I learned that, example, when one family was through eating, all of them took their own plate to the sink as a team and everyone cleaned up the kitchen. It was usually me that cleaned up our kitchen after a meal, there weren't any takers but it still had to be done. My Mother always made our meals and boy were they yummy! Mom didn't really teach us how to cook, it was her job but we did get to help peel or gather the ingredients that would be used for the meal.

When I met my future husband, he had already joined the Marines and soon would be leaving after basic training and heading to Vietnam.

I got my first postcard from him and then I got a call from his sister and brother to join them on a drive to Canoby Lake Park. I said I'd go but could I take a friend? They said sure and off we went and had a great day. After meeting his sister and brother I was invited to their home for a fun day of yard games and a cookout. I met them all, there are 3 sisters and 6 brothers, wow, I've never seen such a huge family!! I did this a few more times, helping with dishes, laundry and having fun listening to the girls sing while his Dad played guitar. I was the youngest in my family so it was fun to be a big sister to one of his sisters and 5 little brothers.

I say all that, to say, I appreciate all that these two sets of parents taught me by example and participation.

My future husband Tom came home from Vietnam and I had the opportunity to introduce my family to his. It was a day of laughter, songs, good food and a feeling of acceptance. I knew from the first kiss that Tom would be my husband.

Tom took me to my High school prom and that night when he brought me home he proposed to me and I said yes. I couldn't wait to wake my parents up and show them my ring while saying, "I'm engaged", the sheepish grins on their faces only told me they knew but happily approved.

I spent many more days with my soon to be new family learning, helping and loving all of them.

The women in my new family did all the kitchen work and the boys did the lifting, trash and work outside the home. The girls worked outside the home too. Tom's Mother stayed at home with so many children. They took in foster children from time to time also.

Just want to recognize the great teamwork that goes into bringing up a family whether it be big or small. Without the team the relationship is weak but love and willingness to help one another makes it strong.

I am thankful to have been exposed to the many blessings and life gifts that have come my way.

Thanks, Mom and Dad Brackin

Thanks Mum and Dad Cormier

I love you all very much!

Thank you Tom for being my team partner in love, life and family, love you forever and always