Family

When Brian and I learned we were expecting our very first child, we began a very sweet tradition. Brian and I wrote little notes in a journal for Julia. Every anniversary we would take our stack of journals and write a little note about special moments in the past...

Catchy title, huh? I don't want to forget them playing together. It's like our sweet little guy just realized he can get up and play with everyone. I don't have anything huge to say. No grand ideas today. I'm just really enjoying them.

If I close my eyes tightly, I can see the Tap 'n Toe building at the corner of Custer and Park. I can remember holding my breath hoping that my arabesques were perfect. I can remember trying on toe shoes for the first time. I can remember laying in bed, staring at the...

From Riley's birthday in late February through Nate's birthday in early May, it is birthday season in this house. In a twelve week period, all seven of us celebrate one more rotation around the sun. Late last night, Julia and I snuck out to the backyard and painted a...

Oh my dearest Julia. Sometime around November I realized that your childhood is now a gift, tied with a blue satin bow, and released from my heart to yours. I had been wrestling with all of the 'lasts'. The last first day of school. The last Christmas morning. The...

Dearest Cindy, it will be no surprise to you that I write out my thoughts to try to process this grief that is making me dizzy. We met just four short years ago. I've looked up the timeline twice now because I was sure I've known you for so much longer than that. You...

This conversation is sponsored by Tommy John, the maker of the softest men's undershirts I've ever felt. It is my honor to share news with you from a company that I enjoy and support! My dearest Brian, How could I have known that my very own Robin Hood would have made...

Hey mom. I'm ready. Let's do this. Oh, isn't this cute? I'll just take a teeny bite. On second thought, hand it over! Sebastian, your first birthday was so fun. Tia came over and brought your first cake. It was a confetti bundtini. You were so precious as you...

Oh sweet little one. Your birthday is coming up so quickly. Five more days and you will have been here a year. It's as if you have always been here. You make everyone smile and laugh. Your giggle in the backseat as Riley and Mary Alice will forever be one of my...