Extended families have made a big difference in my life.

• I've been lucky in love and have had a succession of lovers. We made homes together and lived a family-style life there. The stories are spread across more than 40 years of living, which makes the retelling especially difficult. But I plan to try. Collectively, the episodes comprise my own family experiences.

• Two extraordinary women, very special friends, became central to my life several years ago. There is much to say about my Smith/Hays extended family.