Brady's Blessing

Brady Mae was blessed on Mother's Day. In her sermon Pastor Barbara talked about Hanai, which means family by choice in Hawaiian culture. The Aeby's have been part of my Hanai since I was ten years old and being with them always feels like coming home.

It didn't take me long to discover that one of the most magical parts of motherhood is other mamas, especially this one. After being best friends for over 20 years Rachel called me one morning and about thirty seconds into the conversation I knew she was going to tell me she was pregnant, having just tested positive myself a day or two before. (I planned to tell her in person but she can't keep a secret for more than fifteen seconds so she called me as soon as she knew). It turned out we were due the exact same day. We've lived an hour apart since college so it was such a blessing to have Rachel fifteen minutes away while we went though pregnancy, childbirth and the first six months of our baby girls lives together. Of all the things I am thankful for, the bond that Rach and I share is at the top of the list. She loves my kids as if they're her own and her generous heart never ceases to inspire me.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms loving their babies with all they've got. I think we'd all agree that being a mom is the hardest thing we've ever done and the most sacred gift we've ever been given. 

Easter 2018

We hosted Easter at our house with both the Leitz/Rallo and Wilhelm/McLauglin clans. Coordinating plans with that many people came with a fair amount of frustration but everything eventually fell into place. When all was said and done it was a wonderful weekend and I loved having everybody together. 

Saturday we did an Easter Egg hunt at our neighborhood playground- the boys hunted with all their hearts and got their faces painted like dragons. My family arrived Saturday afternoon and we went to church Saturday evening. It was really nice having my mom and both of my sisters here, drinking wine and laughing late into the night. Sunday morning Ty's family and my grandparents came and we did an egg hunt here followed by an Easter brunch. Most of the Wilhelm/McLaughlins left early on and the Leitz/Rallos stated until late afternoon, so we got quality time with everyone. 

Growing up we always had fancy outfits for holidays- three girls with matching dresses, shoes and accessories. This was the first holiday where I got to dress Hazel up and I was surprised by how special it was. The boys are adorable and I love them in their little button downs but something about Hazel with her dress and bow brought me back to the Easters of my past and made my heart swell. 

I am incredibly thankful for the Easter story and the peace that Jesus brings to my life.