As I get ready to bring up a daughter of my own, I started thinking about all the women in my life, and how incredibly blessed I am to have had such amazing, strong female relatives. My grandmother Elizabeth was such a great spirit – if angels exist inside human beings, she was one of them. Some people wear “WWJD” bracelets, but I try to live my life by “WWGD” – “What Would Grandma Do?” I’ve probably done a lot of things she wouldn’t have done, but she’s still a pretty good role model. I’ve been surrounded by intelligent and fun aunts and “aunt figures” – Robin, Riva, Vistie, Kathie, Karen, all the great-aunts and extended family who have taught me to be intelligent, fun and adventurous. My cousin Corie, even though she is younger, taught me how to be confident. When she was about 15 she was probably more wise and socially confident than I ever was during high school. And of course, my mom – she taught me to be strong, independent, fierce, protective and determined.
It doesn’t stop at blood relatives, either – I’ve been so fortunate to be blessed with great friends, like Amy, and a great step-mother and step-grandmother. I couldn’t have asked for better in-laws. Sam’s family is full of such incredible women, especially his mum, who is endlessly loving and supportive – and one of the fiercest people you will ever meet.
Our daughter is going to be so lucky to have all these amazing women in her life: Mom, Christine, Sharon, Amy, Robin, Riva, Vistie, Corie, Fern, Caggy, Anne…. I could go on but there are so many! She’s going to be so blessed and so well cared for, and she will have so many great role-models to look up to, no matter what she wants to be. So thank you to all the wonderful, intelligent, loving, silly, crazy, inspiring women that have been in my life – and who will be there for our little girl.
