Yesterday, some of the loveliest women I know all came together to celebrate the soon-to-be arrival of Baby K. It was a humbling, God-honoring, energizing few hours, and I was so, so blessed to be in the company of beautiful friends and family. I have no doubt that our little one will be surrounded by more love and care than I could ever ask for…a testament to the relationships that bless my life and encourage me to grow as a Christ-follower, wife, mother, friend, daughter, and granddaughter.

My dear friend Jen was a most gracious host; she threw a party with her usual flair and thoughtful touches–ones that reaffirm just a fraction of the reasons why I love her so much. She knows me as few others do, not only for all of my idiosyncrasies and vulnerabilities, but for my tastes and likes and style as well. Consequently, it was no surprise that every detail appealed to my senses and felt personal and “just right.” If we had celebrated on white paper plates and with little decoration I would still have been grateful, but every aspect was so lovingly prepared…from the diaper cake…

i especially love little Sophie the giraffe...friend of big Sophie--a nursery "must have" 🙂

…to the food…

sophisticated dirt for dessert! aren't they pretty in mini mason jars?

…to the flowers and decorations and games…

beautiful! (and so spring-inspired 🙂

simply lovely. precious newborn pics of one of my favorite babes didn't hurt a bit either 🙂

oh, baby!

and whoa, baby! look at that belly grow! playing the string game to guess how big the peanut is getting.

And then of course, our little one was so lovingly showered with beautiful and thoughtful gifts–some for fun and lots to cherish, and others just perfect for meeting baby’s upcoming needs…

overwhelming generosity.

custom nursery bedding on its way from grandma t (a.k.a. mom:)

and the cuddliest giraffe ever from great gramma donna. a baby k favorite, i'm certain!

My favorites part of the afternoon, though? Just being so surrounded and supported in love and prayer by Godly women. Jen read a scripture over our growing bundle and touched on the very thing that makes all of this so amazing…this baby has been planned for and created, loved and nurtured by God–since long before he or she even came to be in my womb:

psalm 139.13-16

jen reading psalm 139 for baby k. i love the sun in this picture!

it's possible i cried. but sometimes i'm just overjoyed by the thought of God's hand on our babe...

I have some of the best friends in the world. And I love being able to share this time with them.

jen and me. undoubtedly kindred spirits. one of my life's greatest joys.

bekah and me. two week apart bellies and faithful friends. God has absolutely woven our lives together 🙂

We are so abundantly blessed, and I couldn’t ask for more.

showered in the very best of ways,

mm