I sat with two lovely (and beautifully pregnant) ladies tonight over coffee, and the joy in the room–over new life and planning and mommyhood, was palpable and refreshing. Wednesdays are always long days for me, and this one was no exception. I wasn’t entirely full of energy when I arrived to our “belly meet-up,” but it didn’t take long to be encouraged, or to regain a little spring in my step–even past 8pm.

There is so much value in community and relationship, and I can’t imagine enjoying life half as much without great friendships and good conversations to carry me through. I’ve kept it no secret that the past week has been tough for me–physically, emotionally, mentally, and at times, spiritually, too. Mornings have been hard to face and evenings, monotone and dragging. I don’t like admitting it, but it’s just been a bit of a rough go, and I’m ready to be able to breathe again (both literally and figuratively). Spending time with life-giving people makes everything a little easier to manage. Having plans with friends and fellow moms and family on the calendar spurs me on to tomorrow, and the next day, and the next.

Sometimes it’s the little things that have the biggest impact. An hour or two over a cup of coffee and authentic conversation, a short prayer for someone you don’t know, a five minute back rub at the end of a very pregnant day. An easy-to-make dinner. The right accessory. A hug from your favorite person and the encouragement that you’re “doing great.” Tulips. Daffodils. Daisies. The sun peeking out. Baby’s crib, finally in the house and ready to come out of the box. A black puppy. The list goes on.

Today, I’m grateful for the things that went right and for the ability to put a cap on the things that went wrong. And I’m glad for another new day tomorrow. After emptying out for a few days and feeling a bit deflated, it’s great to be a little bit filled up again tonight. Spurring on. It’s important, and we all need it sometimes.

celebrating the good,

mm