Something I felt like doing...

Redford Family photo taken May 2008
We are only missing Jakob and Makia. Since then Melissa has had a baby boy, Christian, and I am expecting a little boy any day now. Let me tell you about my family from the point of view as the youngest sibling in this crew.
First up Mom and Dad, the founders of this Unit. My dad is a hard worker, his whole life, he was not a dead beat dad. He has been a perfect example to his sons on how to be a provider, protector, and priesthood holder. He has had his growing pains as a dad as I expect all of us can attest to, however, he error's were always what he thought was the best for us and built character and experience. If nothing else I can look back over my life and not have a moments hesitation knowing my Dad loved me. My mom is a cheerleader and a devil's advocate. I had the best self esteem growing up and couldn't understand why those in my same circumstances in school didn't until I realized it was because of my mom. I was the best singer, best setter, best tennis player, best dressed, best hair, best friend anyone could ever have. Because my mom is so good at recognizing strengths and attempts at being better and complimenting you on those achievements sometimes you think she isn't being sincere, but she is Always! My mom is also the devils advocate, which can drive you absolutely mad at times because you don't want to see other side of the situation you want to only see the peachy side or your side and want your mom to be on board with that. However, after the matter is over most the time you realize her advice was right or in the ball park.
Kim and Trent and Family. Jeff and I look up to this family. We try to gleen their family strengths to incorporate into our family. Kim's leadership role in the family and how she is the unnoticed backbone. Trent's demanding hysterical personality that will set you right and how he always does right by his family, London's sense of responsibility and maturity, Isabelle's innocence and grace, Brennan's sincerity with everyone and the way he adores is cousin Evalie.
Sean and Kim and Family. Sean has a way like my Grandfather to set a plan in motion and knows how to get the ball rolling, the steps that need to be taken. Its like he knows the formula
a +b = c and that's that. He's brilliant, sometimes I don't think he knows his potential or atleast he doesn't know how to focus it. I bet Kim doesn't know this, but I feel a different kind of closeness with her. I feel like Kim and I are more alike in some ways than me and my sisters. Jase has confidence about herself, and Jayda is stubborn and hilarious.
Justin and Family. I bet Justin doesn't know this but when I was 9 or 10 he drew my name for Christmas. He gave me a stuffed dog, which I use to collect dogs, Melissa got bears and I got dogs. After I graduated from HS I had to go through all my stuffed animals to get rid of some. I kept him. After I got married I had to get rid of more I only kept 3 and his bear was one of them. Not because I think the dog is so amazing or that I think Evalie will love it, but because Justin gave it to me and thought of me when he bought it. Jakob's imagination is amazing and Makia is so beautiful and kind to all around her, she doesn't withhold her love.
Michele Kaye. She can really dish it out and also has to take a lot. She is sensitive, stubborn, thinks she is 3 years old and 60 old. She is the child and the boss. But she is loved, sometimes it's difficult to show, and maybe needs to be shown more, but she is loved.
Brad and Anne and Family. While growing up I bragged about my brother Brad, he was on the tennis team, he has a date, he's going to WSU. Brad sets his path and takes it. He isn't influenced by those around him. Anne is an example of taking on Motherhood. From the very first child to their last one she has nurtured and reared her children. I don't know if the transition was hard, but from the outside she was a pro. She also is one of those that can live without and be patient for something better. Owen is the big brother in all ways. Jaeger has a more quiet demeanor. Lucy is strong willed and confident. Luke has beautiful eyes and smile. I don't know Savannah that well, but from what I know she takes her place as the youngest of a big family, I bet I was like that.
Melissa and DJ and Family. Melissa has been my best friend since the day I was born. I got blamed for a lot of things I didn't do because of her. But I blame a lot of my character and strength and ability to think for myself on her. She has been my example. She is completely oblivious to what is socially acceptable. DJ can take on hard tasks to achieve his family's goals. He can live in construction, live away from his family, work long long hours, and be a hands on father. Christian is so cute and has lungs to holler.
Stacey and Jeff and Family. Jeff is my perfect match that I realize more day after day. It's so obvious that everyone around us recognizes that. He is very handsome, especially with the new facial hair =) He loves his daughter. Evalie is so funny, and so cute, and I know I'm not biased or anything, she just is the best. And me well, from my own perspective, I have weaknesses but overall I would say I am pretty great.

Our family is big and noisy, we cut each other off mid sentence, we make promises to visit we don't intend to keep, we fight and annoy each other on purpose. We learn and have learned from each others mistakes and will continue to do so as long as we are imperfect, which may be longer for some than for others =)