My Little Princess

Everly is 3 months old today.  Matt and I both agree that the past 3 months have felt like the longest, most stressful 3 months of our lives.  During that time we had a baby, moved, remodeled our new home, traveled to and from the hospital to visit Everly in the NICU for almost 7 weeks, hosted family for Everly's baby blessing, celebrated 2 birthdays and Thanksgiving, and have tried our best to fall into a new "normal".  Life is very different than I had expected it to be at this point.  I knew I would be busy with three small children four and under, but this is taking it to a whole new level.  This kind of life is a challenge for a person like myself.  I like to be prepared. I like to feel in control and to know what to expect.  I like a loose routine and so do my kids. This experience has been humbling.  The Lord has taught me how to rely on Him and his faithful servants.  To ask for help repeatedly and to accept help when all I wanted was to be made capable of doing it all on my own.  I've seen true charity first hand and most importantly I've been taught how to be more charitable, compassionate, and sympathetic.  The purpose of this "challenge", although I'd rather see it as a blessing, is beginning to unveil itself and will continue to over time.  I'm more aware and grateful for the good in my life. I'm grateful for my little princess who came a little early and a little sick. She is thriving and growing.  I can't wait to watch Everly grow, meet milestones, and get stronger and healthier over time. Today she was awake and pleasant for 6 hours straight (longer than she normally is awake all day by a long shot) , made good eye contact, and showered me with lots of smiles.  It was a tender mercy that filled my heart with joy.  I love my little princess.

An Anthro Inspired Baby Shower

My amazing friend Molly is the biggest Anthro (as in Anthropologie the store) enthusiast I know and quite possibly the most creatively talented person I know as well.  I am lucky enough to not only be her friend, but to also benefit from her talents.  She insisted on throwing me a baby shower the moment she heard we were having a girl.  I know it seems silly to have a baby shower for a third baby, but when Molly insists you throw your hands up and say yes please!  This shower was like no other I've been to.  Everly's name and nursery colors (fuscia, rust orange, and baby blue) was all she needed to create the most beautiful and fun shower you could imagine.  Take a look at this creative genius at work and check out her blog entries!  I think you'll be wishing she were you're friend the next time you have a baby.  Thanks Molly!

http://anthromollogies.com/2013/12/02/paint-pantone-themed-baby-shower/

http://anthromollogies.com/2013/12/06/paint-and-pantone-themed-baby-shower-part-deux/