Today McKenna, George and I took a trip to our local Ikea. While eating breakfast, we had a view of the flags proudly being flown in their parking lot: American, Illinois, and Pride.

This led to an unexpectedly delightful conversation about the Pride flag and all that it represents. We talked about how love is love. Periodt. And however you feel in your heart is exactly who you are supposed to be; even if it doesn’t match the body you were born with. 

We talked about the many ways families may look and how weddings are a celebration of love no matter who is getting married. There is no right or wrong when it comes to planning your wedding. This led to a conversation about walking down the aisle, wedding dresses, and tuxedos.

Weddings are McKenna’s jam so I was not surprised by her genuine curiosity on these particular details. 

George said something pretty profound just then. He’s a smart kid. And this one got me right in the feels.

Mom, there are no rules about weddings. You can do whatever you want when you get married. It’s your love party.  

We somehow naturally transitioned to girl and boy coded clothing, colors, activities, toys, and games and how there’s no such thing, really. Clothing, activities, toys, and games are for people and if you are person, you are welcome to enjoy them all if it makes you happy and doesn’t hurt anyone else. They made connections between our conversation and families & friends they know. I was amazed by their insight.

I was not even a little surprised by their open hearts and minds.

This all reminded me how important it is to talk about Pride and all it means not just during June but always. Representation matters. My hope is my children will always be an advocates for families that don’t mirror their own. I don’t know who my children will be or who (if) they will love when they are grown. But my kids know they, and whomever they deem special enough to love, will always have a place in my heart.