The Men in My Life

I loved this prompt from Andrea and Erika's "Let's Talk" series and thought it was the prefect way to share a little more about The Men in my Life:

Brian

We all know Brian around these parts; sarcastic, silly, and my other half. The best Girl Dad to our sweet babes and a doting doggy parent, too. My best friend since I was a Junior in high school and he was a sophomore. The one I didn't know was The One until we shared our first kiss. I can't say enough wonderful things about him and am so thankful God joined our lives together.

Shay

My brother is 10 years younger than me. And the best baby brother I could have asked for. I was SO excited when my mom told me she was pregnant! Because of the huge age difference I feel like I was the jr mom and he pretty much was my practice baby ;) When Shay was 2, he started to display some concerning health issues and because of reading The Babysitters Club books, I strongly felt he was diabetic (a main character had diabetes and in one book it described her symptoms- always thirsty and urinating frequently, check and check.) After a scary incident when he was running and just collapsed and couldnt stand up, he was officially diagnosed as having Type 1 diabetes. My brother is one of the bravest people I know. And one of the smartest. It is awesome having a grown up relationship with him and seeing him with Kinsey and Brielana. He takes his role as uncle very seriously and they adore him. I will never forget when he told me I was the coolest big sister out of all his friends older sister's because I treated him nicely, unlike his friend's sisters. I will always carry that badge of honor with pride.

Papa

forgive the grainy, dusty picture, thanks ;)

My maternal grandpa is my father figure. He was the one who taught me how to ride a bike, bought me my first pair of roller blades and took me to my swim lessons. He is one of the funniest people I know and I like to think that's where I got my wit and sense of humor.

My papa walked me down the aisle at my wedding and when we picked out baby names the boy we never did have would have shared his name. My papa is 89 years old and has early onset alzheimer's and it breaks my heart to see him disappearing. He has good days and bad days but at least he still has days left with us. And he still has his funny bone intact!

Dad

My dad is a recovering alcoholic. I don't remember a time when my parents were together. I would only see my dad occasionally growing up and it didn't really bother me until I realized I was the only one out of my friends who didn't have their dad at home with them. My dad couldn't attend my wedding because he was at a detox center. But a couple of years after that, he moved to California and located about 90 minutes away and we have slowly worked towards a relationship. Two years ago he had a stroke that took away his balance and sight from one eye but gave him perspective. Our relationship is tenuous and at times awkward but I will take the small talk about the weather and the long laughes to fill the silence than never trying and feeling bitter and angry. It's the trying that matters the most to me even if there are missteps there is also mercy.

Dave

Brian's stepdad is a blessing in our lives. He came into Brian's life when he was 13 years old and has been his father figure ever since. Dave has the ability to make everyone feel welcomed and part of the family right away. He is hilarious and always ready to help us or lend a hand to anyone in need. He is Papa to the girls and has become a role model not just to Brian but to me as well. 

Linking up with Andrea and Erika.