The concept of family is increasingly complex and multidimensional. Divorce separates, remarriage expands and death disheartens. The connective links are the children who yearn for the security of the more traditional past, yet take good-hearted measure to try and embrace the new. I’ve written past blogs about the struggles of our sons to adapt to changes in the family structure and the ongoing efforts to reassure of our stability as parents. This blog. however, is about Larry’s only daughter Beth, my stepdaughter, and her place in the family evolution.
Beth is gifted, highly motivated, compassionate and tenderhearted, certainly always Larry’s pride and joy. As challenging as it may have been for a “daddy’s girl” to share space in a remarriage without feeling “replaced”, Beth accepted me as a stepmom and for years our relationship has been one of respect and caring. Currently a successful attorney in family practice in Corvallis, Oregon, Beth studied at the NC School of Math and Science, Wake Forest and Princeton before moving to the west coast and pursuing a law degree. A love for summer theatre led her to Dow, musician husband and dad to five-year-old Neil and two-year-old Madeline. I have watched Beth blossom as a mother who shares a joy for music, a passion for the outdoors, and, along with Dow, wise counsel to their children. I am proud of both of them as parents and thankful they continue to include me in their lives as "Grandma Glenda".
Painting this first “front-on” portrait was indeed a challenge and included a “Laine lesson”. I haven’t used my palette knife so fully as when I painted big brother Neil on his tricycle a couple of years ago (see my FASO page). I hope your eyes are drawn to Madeline’s sweet face, which so closely reflects Beth's own features. Larry would have adored his first granddaughter, just as he did baby Neil. These precious children bring joy to my heart.
