To this day my family dynamic is one that confuses most. I have three half siblings and two step siblings-- however, I am an only child.

Growing up, I would spend every other weekend with my younger half siblings at my dad’s and the other time with just my mom. I find my “Brady Bunch” like family with siblings ranging from 12-27, keeps me always having someone to go to wither it’s for a good laugh, or some much needed advice. Family vacations with my dad’s side are always fun considering the range of activities we have planned to keep everyone happy.

On the other side, I appreciate the unique relationship I have with just my mom and growing up living with just her. I am lucky enough to have grown up as her only child and her as my best friend. Our similar tastes in fashion, movies, food and much more allow us to get along perfectly and it is a blessing to be able to have a household with one parent’s undivided attention. This is where I am an only child under one roof but not under another that makes my family dynamic so unique.

When with my dad’s side of the family, my days become more hectic, fun and always unexpected. Everyone has unique personalities that have allowed me to understand how to get along with so many different types of characters. From my dad tanning or cracking jokes, to my little siblings bouncing off the walls or playing games, there is always something going on in the Zimmerman household.

My favorite time of year is when I get to come home from college and spend not just one night with my family but two or multiple holiday dinners in one night. Sometimes yes it can be stressful to make sure not one parent feels like the favorite for Thanksgiving or Hanukah dinners-- however, we always seem to make it work.

At my mom’s house my aunt usually makes the dinner and we celebrate in a quieter setting at our dining room table with my four cousins, mom and uncle. I love this time because my cousins are pretty close in age to me so we get to talk about a lot and just bond since I don’t see them for months while at school.

On the other side, my dad’s dinners are pretty extravagant. The chef and my step mom usually prepare the courses while someone comes in to decorate and brings in one long table in order to fit our twenty plus family members and close family friends. These dinners are so much fun but not as calm as my mom’s. I feel so blessed to get to experience two different family dynamics.

People look at me like I’m crazy when I explain my family to them-- however, this is normal to me. My parents got divorced when I was one and I have grown up seeing my family continue to grow and having more people to love and who love me.