The Framily
Have you ever made those connections that make you think, “How do you even exist?” Have you ever gotten to know someone and wonder “How have I never met someone like you?” These people are few and far between, I believe. And if you ever find them, keep them close.
I’m fortunate enough to say those kinds of people are my friends. And it came about through some interesting circumstances… involving giving God an ultimatum, being in a really low season, but that’s a story for another time. But to start off, I was wrestling with the uncertainty of my place. I felt like I didn’t belong in the volunteer position I was in, I didn’t have many deep connections after I moved to Oklahoma, and I was looking for answers. It wasn’t until I volunteered at my first youth camp did I start to feel hope again, thanks to Olivia.
Olivia was another leader supervising the dorm I was in. She was very welcoming, caring, and had a sense of humor I could get behind. We bonded over our love of frogs and Spongebob quotes, and she made that week so much easier by showing me how the camp worked, and sharing other leader’s names that I wasn’t familiar with. I followed her around like a lost puppy, and she was more than willing to help. If it wasn’t for Olivia, I’m not sure where I would be right now. Because not only did she befriend me, she brought me into a new group of people that I consider to be a second family.
It all began in August of 2018 when I went over to Olivia’s house, where roughly 8 other people were inside. Most of them I already knew because we volunteered together in youth ministry. But this is where I got to know Leighton. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into when I started befriending her. We bonded over our creative exploits, and mutual interest in hypothetical scenarios. Her observational comedy got tears rolling down my face, I hadn’t laughed like that in such a long time. But that evening, I saw a level of community that I had never seen or been a part of. I couldn’t wait to see them again.
That September, was the bonfire. THE bonfire. We still mention it to this day. There was something about that night that really solidified something. It was the first time I was in a group of people where I still felt included without even saying a word. There was about 12 of us around the fire eating pizza, sharing crazy stories, and learning more about one another. Me and Audrey took a few minutes to step away and look up at the stars, I was introduced to Cassie, Jacob, and Tanner for the first time, and I was beginning to see the many sides of these people I’m falling in love with.
From then on, we had weekly Sunday Night Hangs. After Sunday night service, we go get our own food and meet back at The House, hosted by Phil and Jill- a second home and a safe space for anyone who comes in. Each week is different. Sometimes we play games, sometimes we talk until 2 in the morning, other times we watch old Sonic the Hedgehog episodes, or even poorly draw our dream spouse. It’s an adventure every time. It was here I really started to invest and be a part of the conversations. I felt heard, I felt understood, I felt I belonged.
Everything from Sunday services, nightly hang outs, Wednesday night volunteering, I slowly saw God’s faithfulness in a prayer I had prayed for years. I had finally found the friends I always wanted, but never knew existed.
Greyson, the littlest brother of the family that acts like an old man who would rather read by the side of the pool. He is a solid rock, loves the church, and an amazing worshipper. Wise beyond his years, a killer baker, and makes the quickest and wittiest comebacks. Gets tired of your nonsense, while also being the nonsense.
Cassie, our Louisiana Lass. Very intelligent, and very funny. She’s never afraid to be introspective and find ways to grow. Wonderful with words, intentional with her conversation, sharing thoughts and feelings with her will not disappoint.
Brooklyn, who we sometimes refer to as the mom of the group. She is a voice of reason, a safe shelter, and beautiful leader. One who is very attentive to others, and a source for wise council. She will never let you feel alone, unappreciated, or unloved. She can also throw a mean biscuit. Like, really hard.
Elisha, the most musically talented person I’ve ever known. But more impressive is his preference for personal and intimate connections with people. He’s more comfortable with smaller gatherings, which is where his personality shines through- a little wild, but a lot of heart.
Cherish, a goddess among us. Her enthusiasm for the things she loves is so contagious, you can’t help but smile when you’re with her. She will no doubt be your biggest cheerleader, in everything you are and in everything you do. She is an encourager, edifier, and a friend you want to keep close.
Nichole, a multi-faceted personality with wit and wisdom. She has her silly side, she has her creative side, and she has her sturdy side. They all come together to form a beautiful human being who is both knowledgable and interesting. Dependable, honest and true, and it all reflects her heart for those she loves.
Audrey, a self-aware firecracker. She loves the artistic world, coffee shops, and letting you know that you are seen and loved. Her drive to better herself is inspiring, and it all stems from her relationship with Jesus. She’s feisty, she’s stylish, and she’s here to make statement.
As the months and weeks progressed, I got to know others like Lauren, Kailey, Andrew, Olivia D., Joe, Dwayne, Madison and so many more. These people are my family. But we’re not always together, some have moved and live all across the United States. It’s been ages since we’ve all been together under one roof. So we decided to change that, and give a gift to Phil and Jill. They are as much parents to us as they are to there own kids, and we wanted to give them something that let’s them and the rest of us know that there is always a home with them and with each other. We all officially became The Framily.
To this day, this is still my favorite commission and piece of art I’ve done. It captures our personalities and our dynamic. We see it every time we go to The House. We see our faces, and we know we belong. I am so thankful for these people and the community they have given me. I’m thankful for Phil and Jill for making their home OUR home as well. I’m thankful that I trusted God to supply me with these relationships when I felt so alone.
Maybe you’re out there and you were in the same position I was in, longing for genuine, fun-loving connections that matter and that will last. They are out there. They exist. My encouragement to you is to be who you are. You are not “too much.” You are not weird or unrelatable. There are people out there who will let you, and appreciate what you have to offer. The more you like that side of you shine, the right people will see that from far off and will welcome you with open arms.
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