2015: The Year of Finding and Reclaiming Family and Self

After multiple attempts and waiting for decades, my mother received in October 2014 a copy of her original birth certificate which had previously been sealed by the court. She had hoped to learn the name of her biological father. Sure enough, on the birth certificate was his name. In March of 2015, my mother found a living half sister and two other living "foster" siblings. Through correspondence with these siblings, we have discovered much information about my maternal grandfather. Here is a picture of my mother and a picture of her father at similar ages:
 
What a treasure it is to have these pictures of my grandfather.

Mom and her father had a few things in common, in addition to their looks. One was their artistic talent.

In September, my parents took a rode tr'p so that my mother could meet her half sister.

This year has been one of the happiest years for my mother. She corresponds with all three children who once lived with her father. We have all been so blessed to get to know this special family.

Life does not always go the way of happiness and personal desire. Yet, even when things go terribly wrong, it is refreshing to find joy amidst the trials. This truth is no less significant when we actually find ourselves through our trials. In this respect, we rejoice in reclaiming that which was once lost.

And,
We Couldn't Be Happier!

2015 YEAR REVIEW IN PICTURES

2015...

• The year of finding and reclaiming family and self

• The year of returning with honor

• The year of relocating
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• The year of wholesome, recreational activities

• The year of educational pursuits and graduations