Christmas 2011 snapshots

There are too many to choose from...here are a few favorites. Our holiday in Portland was filled with love, food, and unforgettable moments.

Thanks be to God.

Tradition

Julekake, a Norwegian tradition passed down from my great grandmother. It was this year that the tradition would be passed to me, as my own mother taught me how to make this delicious Christmas bread. I decided to capture what I could with photographs. Enjoy!

5 months

He is beginning to outgrow his clothes...I wasn't expecting this feeling of melancholy to visit so soon...I am in trouble :)

Love This Guy

Yep..this is the man I chose to spend my life with.

Reminded by Toe Nails

I can still hear the compliments towards my snazzy green toe nail polish the day my son was born. The day before his birth, my dear friend Melisa gave me a pedicure (while in labor) to prepare for his arrival! Now 4 months later, the remnants are fading. In the moment right before I snapped this photo, I was overwhelmed with bittersweet emotion. It was a moment that reminded me of change, of indescribable love, and an incredible story that continues on...

Rrrrolling into 4 months!

I remember hearing some parents say, "This has been my favorite stage with my son/daughter yet." And then the following month they would say that all over again. I now understand how that phenomena occurs :) It is truly a miracle how fast children learn and grow. He is now a pro at rolling. It just kind of happened one day as he was laying on his play mat and next thing I know he is on his tummy. Once again, I was surprised at how PROUD I felt. I have a feeling I may be one of those "vocal" moms at my kids events. Love getting to cheer on my son as he discovers the world!

Seriously kid...what are you hiding in those cheeks? Just want to squish and kiss em'!!

First roll that I was able to capture on video!!

Thankful

Tis the season
There is much to be grateful for

I have hope
A God who loves me regardless
Family
A roof over my head, soft pillow to lay my head
Senses to delight in the things of this world
The capacity to love and be loved

Random Thursday Thoughts...

Coffee shop..glass of red wine. What is a woman to write about under such circumstances? (Did I mention Jamison is at home with his daddy?) It has been a difficult last few weeks but today..today has been met with laughter, enjoyment, and seeds of hope. Jamison is growing so quickly. His chatter bring a lightness to my heart, reminding me of innocent beauty. My marriage is growing quickly too. It takes a gracious partnership of quick forgiveness and a commitment of constant communication to raise a family. Everyone is being stretched as we are asked to lay down our needs for the sake of the other. It is not always pretty, this new season we found ourselves in. Just like the Fall leaves, the colors of our family continuously change. Change is beautiful because it pushes me to uncomfortable places. Streeeeeetch Katy! I know that some day soon I will resiliently adapt to what has been put before me. I know this because there is a God that has my back and softly lets me know that everything will be okay. My circumstances may not change but peace faithfully comes in the midst of the storm.

Here are two pictures that I have been looking at often. To be honest, I STILL am in awe that I have inherited the role and privilege of being a mom. This thought is so tender and hits me every once in awhile. What an honor. I watch my hubby laugh, hold, and snuggle our son and I am overwhelmed. Partly because I feel anxious & depressed as well as an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I am glad that my previous experiences at Mars Hill Graduate School has prepared me to hold both in my cup. I am learning to continually wrestle with ambiguity. So with that, being a mommy has brought both jubilation and heartache. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything...

Missing You...

It has been 2 months, 24 days since you left this place. I miss you. I keep thinking about you. My heart breaks for Sierra, Dakota, and Viantay. I don't know if I will ever understand...while you "rest in peace," the rest of us will mourn. For we will not see your beautiful face on earth again. You touched so many lives. We had so many meaningful conversations of love, loss, and healing. I wish you could have met my son. He would have loved you. You always did have a way with babies. I miss you friend...