Everywhere I look, growth feels apparent and abundant these days. The trees and plants are all proclaiming Spring, the grass is rising at a marvelous rate, Henry is an increasingly chatty and independent little person, and my belly is expanding by the week. Nothing around me seems to be slowing down, and I can’t say I mind. I love change and progress, even in the midst of doing my best to embrace the here and now.

Today we moseyed with a dear friend downtown, enjoyed iced coffee, browsed inspiring racks of vintage clothing, and tried out toys at our favorite shop for kiddos. Henry was in and out (and in and out, and in and out) of the stroller, testing out so much of what the day had to offer on his own terms. We recognized cars and trucks, celebrated every MINI Cooper and VW Beetle that went by, said hello to the “whoa-ter home” twice as we passed it on both sides of the street. (H doesn’t have his own baby version of words much these days, but “whoa-ter home” is one I’d love to hang on to:) And we ran through the grass, crossed the street carefully, and shared our weekly bagel “and maybe some dip!” for a snack. Life is moving right along–but at a lovely pace as the seasons change. And I am soaking up as much time with the Bug as possible, even as we celebrate and anticipate the arrival of the Button together every day. H’s awareness of his little brother or sister fills me to the brim with joy. There is no doubt the Lord is preparing his heart for a sibling as baby gets closer and closer.

Tonight, we ordered pizza and took a family walk to the park before making a special “late night” trip to the train station to watch the commuter train roll in. The park was nearly empty as we went from swing to slide to teeter totter and back again–just the three of us embracing 80+ degree temps and a settling down sun in the distance. And our adventure to the train station may have proved fruitful…H went to sleep a little more peacefully, despite needing mama in the rocker nearby. I think we’re making baby steps in the right direction as we navigate life together in this two year old state. In the meantime, we’re soaking up our days where we can and taking a moment here or there to appreciate the growth all around us.

taking time out on a park bench for a family photo op!

26 weeks…and growing!

so blessed and thankful tonight for a beautiful monday. here’s to the week that follows!

mm