Family of Three

Yesterday was such a nice day! It was sunny and 61 degrees. The weather cooperated with my weekly prayers. I wanted to get pictures done when I got pregnant. Well, back then when I was fully pregnant and it was the middle of summer let's just say: I was not up for it. (To put it nicely) 

Later I wanted to get newborn pictures done when Olivia was born. Well, then the whole caring for a baby, no time to sleep, no time to shower, and hormones up the roof happened and I was not up for it. (To put it nicely). 

Finally before winter hits (it did this morning) we decided to take family pictures. Kasie did an amazing job. This is just a little preview, more to come later. She was great and made us feel super comfortable. We went to college together so it was nice that we already knew her. She is such a caring and genuine person. I feel like even if that was the first time that we were meeting, it would have still gone amazing like it did because of her personality.

The weather here in Arkansas had been a little crazy lately. Lots of rain, lots of wind, and cold. I was a little worried (ok a lot) about taking pictures outside with Olivia. Thank goodness it was such a nice day yesterday and we were able to finish the shoot with no problems. 

If you would have asked me a month ago if this was a good idea; I would have definitely said no. I used to get so worried about long trips, or any trips really outside the house with Olivia. It always makes me feel better when Tim comes along. It's like you have your army with you, made me feel more secure. 

Those days are slowly becoming a memory. I am able to come and go with her...get ready....BY MYSELF! I no longer worry about taking her out. I remember the first time I had to drive with Olivia by myself I was a wreck. I prayed, and cried, and laughed and prayed again for her not to wake up. Now I know she is ok, and like the lady at the Starbucks drive-thru told me: Babies cry....that's is something they do. 

I thought: well I know that, but thinking a little deeper, it was a re-assurance of I am not the only one going thru this, and I won't be the last one. So far, I haven't gotten the side eye if I am out with Olivia and she starts crying. On the contrary, I have gotten compassion. A lot of helpful people opening doors for me, and asking if i need help carrying things to the car. 

A lady at Walgreens the other day greeted me and immediately offered her assistance to quickly locate what I needed and carry the items to the register. I was so thankful to her. I thought wow she knows, she probably has been in my shoes. But then, she told me she hadn't been blessed with children yet. Sometimes you don't even have to be in other's people's shoes to be empathetic. That is a little of what we all need. 

"A kind of gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal". Steve Maraboli

Thanks for reading,