family of my birth
welcomed me with open arms
on the day I arrived
into their story, their journey

family of my marriage
welcomed me with open arms
on our wedding day
on the day we joined our lives
as a couple—
as two became one

two became many—
second mom and dad
new brothers, sisters
joining in step with us
merging with their story, their journey

expanding the circle
new faces, new hearts
welcome, belonging
together—
we learn, we know, we grow,
always together.

Originally written: 3/29 – 3/31/2026