Meet Our Family

When I say, "Family is important to us," it seems so redundant. I meant, duh. It's normal for us to depend on and keep in close touch with family members. But, I'm realizing that we are really blessed to have the family we do. I never want to take for granted all the wonderful people that have been there, are always there, and will forever be there for us.

Family, for us, is not defined by who lived in your house when you were young. Family isn't limited by last name or how long you've known each other. You can't use a list of traits or genetics to define family. I can't even name all the people who we could call family. I have 2nd cousins I've never met. But, I also have friends I couldn't imagine life without. In my mind, family is made up by people who have a place in your heart.

To keep things simple, I'll just tell you about our direct family right now - you know, members of our "family tree."

It seems strange to talk about each "side" of our direct family - as if their differences are something you can measure. We were raised differently. Our parents, siblings, and extended families are most definitely different. But, for me to describe them here, it doesn't seem fair. If there were a way, an unspoken, unseen, unwritten way to share with you the goodness that comes from our families, I would do it. But, words are my best option. So, I'm crossing my fingers that the words I write can make you feel the love and gratitude we have for those we hold most dear.

Austin's family is indescribable. They're so welcoming, understanding, kind, and genuine. You can't enter Jerry & Sherrie's home without a big, tight, loving hug. You'll eat the best food (until your bursting at the seams), laugh about the ridiculous stories being told, & probably be asked to play a post-dinner game of Hearts. You'll feel right at home in their house - even if you aren't officially part of the family.

Sherrie and Jerry
In front of their old house on moving day, January 2013

Austin has two older brothers, Max and Gardner, and a younger sister, Joy. Max and his wife, Elizabeth, lived in Boston for about 7 years - up until recently. Now they're only an hour away! They are two of the most intelligent, well-read, hilarious people I know. Gardner, his wife, Jessica, and their son, August are too much fun. Between all the work they do and adventures they go on, they always find time to visit and keep in touch with the family. Joy married Ben and, together, they have a son, Ethan, and a daughter, Olivia. Just over a year ago, they moved to Hawaii, where they plan to stay for about another year or so, much to Sherrie's dismay. Although, if it were Sherrie's choice, we would all live on the same city block.

(From Left to Right) Ethan, Joy, Gardner, Jess, Jerry, Sherrie, Max, Elizabeth, Austin, Molly
August 2014 at the Seawright/Hancock "SeaCock" Palooza (Family Reunion)

Molly's family is incredible. As a whole, they are caring, loyal, supportive, and loving. Laughter runs through the walls of Jake and Lesa's home. Growing up, Molly's family frequently had guests over for meals and even to stay for days, weeks, or even months at a time. As a family, they would eat at the dinner table every night, which ended up being one of Molly's favorite memories.

Jake and Lesa
Waiting during photos on Erin and Stefan's wedding day

Molly has an older sister, Paige, an older brother, Ben, and a younger sister, Erin. Paige married Lorin over 12 years ago and have four children, Polly, Bruce, Hazel, and Lydia. They only live a few miles away from Molly & Austin and have too many combined dinners to count. Ben and Courtney have been married for about five years and have three children, Clara, Jacob, and Kevin. They are the cutest, most creative family. We only wished they lived close enough to visit more often! Erin and Stefan will be moving to the Midwest mid-December, where they will welcome the newest member of our family, Peter (assuming they don't change their mind once he's born).

(From left to right, back row) Courtney, Ben, Clara, Lesa, Jake, Hazel, Austin, Molly
(front row) Lorin, Paige, Bruce, Polly, Erin
Christmas 2012

From Molly-
As our family grows, so does the love. I worry sometimes about some of us growing apart or losing touch. But, so far, so good! My parents always joked that they were lucky enough to have kids they not only love - but like, too! I think that's true for all the family we have. We love spending time together and making fun memories. If we haven't grown apart by now, I'm going to guess we're all stuck with each other. Being involved in each others' lives has been such a blessing. We've learned so much from each other and grown closer than I ever thought we could. Family is such a blessing. The more family we have, the more family we want!