Personal: Just being here.

Today, 70 people were injured in a movie theater shooting. 12 were killed. Today, I have a hard time thinking about bringing you up in a world full of hate and scary things. How will I ever protect you? How will I ever be okay with the rate in which you grow in eagerness to show me how independent you are? Today, I hugged you more than usual...which is pretty hard considering there aren't many hours you're even awake! And today, I kissed you again and again, even when you tried to get away. You have changed me. And softened me. And today, I loved you the same as always, because this love has already taken up all the empty space. I thank God that you are mine; and that today you are here.

9 months and the love of my life are you. 

When we go to the tree nursery these days, you SCREAM at the top of your lungs, "AT! AT! AT!!" when you see daddy's big tractors. You love this little one of your own...and will learn to drive daddy's in no time! ;) 

Eli Armani, I love you. And that's the beginning of our story.

Our Ordinary Valentine's

I have a tiny family of 4: A husband, 2 dogs...and me. They are the love of my life and I don't think anything compares to the awesomeness of their personalities and our day to day routine. I am learning to love my life in the ordinary. Yesterday's sermon was about remembering to thank God in the ordinary. It's easy to call on Him in times of sorrow and pain, but what about all those times during the day when life is entirely ordinary? Thank you God, for my life as of now...plain and simple. Laundry in progress, dishes in the sink, flowers on the table, photos waiting for edits, a dog at my feet, a dog barking at the door, and the greatest man ever to have spent the last 10 Valentine's Day with.

Our ordinary life is perfect. And our ordinary Monday night--workout, make dinner, play with the dogs, and watch 90210--will be the best extra-ordinary Valentine's!

♥ Happy Valentine's Day my love! From me and the Dogs. xoxo ♥