At this point, you’ve probably understood that I grew up in a very loving, nurturing environment. My biological grandfather was long dead when I came into this world, but Patrick, grandma’s boyfriend then husband, more than stepped up to the task.

Mom and Ma, who had only gotten together after passionate, incessant courtship from Mom, were the very face of romanticism. Their wedding was held in the most romantic place of all, on the Magnolia Promenade. They adopted my sister, and then had to wait years to have me, the biological baby. Miranda and I were cherished and adored, by moms who wanted nothing but the very best for us.

And then of course, there were all the old pictures of Grandma and bio-Grandad, lining the walls, smiling down at all of us.

I grew up surrounded by romance, and soulmates, and undying loves. Is it really any wonder that I was going to look for the same thing? I may have taken a few wrong turns on the way, but I got there in the end.

I just hope I don’t lose it.

The day Mom proposed. Well, the second time, anyway. Mom is a tenacious person. She says her speech the second time was better. Mam… gives no comment.

Being tucked in every night by a loving grandmother is a guaranteed recipe for feeling safe.

Mam, and Mom, and Mom’s dog Rosie, who hated everybody but my mothers. How Mam could be covered in paint even on camping trips is beyond my understanding.

Just Maman and Me