I am lucky to have a family I adore. My parents and brother, his wife and their children, aunts and uncles and all but a few cousins are people I would chose to spend time with. I married into another group of kind, funny, big-hearted people. My parents and parents-in-law are generous to a fault and love their children and grandchildren without reservation (although they do on occasion question our judgment I’m sure).

Tonight I am particularly grateful for the family I am not related to. The community of kind, gracious, vibrant people that I am privileged to share this life with – in the flesh and virtually. I remember the days when it was a challenge to trust – when my heart was broken over and over by the people I called friend. I remember when I  didn’t believe it possible for women to be kind, supportive, loving friends.

I have changed. Life has changed me.

I am surrounded by grounded, powerful, inspiring, visionary women and men. I am surrounded by love.