family...

The bonds of family are formed and strengthened...

Right in the middle of the ordinary moments.

Moments too easily overlooked and undervalued.

If I am being totally honest...

There are many days..

I feel I'm better suited for making warfare than...

Equipping young warriors.

"Frazzled" is a familiar word I would often use to describe my heart.

Family...

They have the ability to expose us in the most unique ways.

With great precision...

They remove the layers we are comfortable hiding behind.

Empowering greater levels of nakedness.

Some days are playful...

Others feel quite painful...

And, yet... 

Letting those we love "in..."

Letting them see who we really are...

It's in these moments true community flourishes.

It's so important to have people in your life who are for you...

Especially when we aren't really "dressed for success."

Family...

Designed to be a safe place to fail and thrive.

Never intended to be a place of perfection.

Instead, a starting ground for us to grow strong in love and then branch out.

Extending the family tree.

With all my heart...

I want to live love with my game face on.

Right next to those I adore most.
Some days are easier than others.

Everyday...
I grow more and more thankful for The God who never breaks "family ties..."
Due to "bad" behavior.
And, everyday...
I learn more and more...
That family is really...
Just little boys and girls...
Coming together and agreeing... 
That it is safe to fully be yourself...
To learn...
To fail...
To risk...
And to succeed...
Without ever fearing abandonment.
That is the heart of Our Daddy...
Longing for all His smalls to live in true family...
Naked and unashamed.

Still learning.