Lately, I’ve been feeling a million different things that all seem to contradict each other. One moment, I feel like I’ve just won the lottery; another moment, I feel like I’m more scared than I have ever been in my life. I imagine the running gamut of emotions has to do with the fact that we are due to be parents in 23 days (though she could arrive at any time now). No matter what I’m feeling though, there is one that is constant: I am lucky to have the family that I have. No, more than that. I am blessed to have the family that I have.

I have a husband who is my dearest friend, partner, and confidante; I have parents who care for both of us in ways that constantly humble and challenge me; I have a brother and sister-in-law who love me for me and expect me to be no one else. How could life be any better? Well, we welcomed our nephew, Jack, in May…and soon, we’re going to be welcoming our daughter, Cate. Add to this the fact that we have two loveable (though very clearly neurotic) cats, and life is pretty nearly complete. All that’s left is to wait and see what God has next. While we’re waiting for what comes next in God’s great plan, here’s a picture of Jack (who’s smiling because he’s getting a cousin).