Tender Mercies

As our first official family vacation, I'd say it was ideal. 4 days and 3 nights of playing in the sand and warm water, eating good food, and relaxing at a cozy Airbnb. It was perfect for our family of four with a two year old and 3 month old.I felt so alive and so happy during these days. I felt like I could do anything! These pictures bring me so much joy and I am beyond grateful we had some time to make memories and just be a family. Panama City Beach, you will always be special to me. And thank you for the warm water and white sands. Day 1: Friday 30 August 2019. Laguna Beach, Fl. Our cottage was perfect, and across the street from the beach! Evening beach trip to a public Panama City Beach before bed  A fun trip to Pelican Ice Cream Parlor before bed! Saturday 31 August, 2019. Dolphin and Snorkel Cruise to Shell Island. This kid was a champ during our trip and napped so well during all of o...

Dear Adelai, As I compiled your pictures from this past year for your album on the eve of your 2nd birthday, I realized it was impossible to include every one. You are beautiful, sassy, and extremely photogenic. It has been a beautiful year as I've watched you grow. You amaze your Dad every day by how much you love books and recognize and know your ABCs, 123s, and basic colors, and I have to agree with him. I love that you are potty trained both day and night, but unfortunately you haven't learned how to sleep through the night yet.  My favorite thing about you right now is how excited you are to meet your baby brother. You challenge me to be more patient and more loving each day, especially as you've begun to realize your autonomy.  While I am not the perfect mother, Heavenly Father is a perfect father and He will always direct your paths as he has mine. Always trust in Him. We've got this, dear daughter. Together with Heavenly Father, your life will be a...