Showers.

Three weeks ago Lincoln School threw a surprise shower for Jake, I & the little one. Sorry no pictures yet (waiting on them to come my way) - yet, it was a wonderful to time celebrate with and receive such great support from those who I work with on a day-to-day basis. I was overwhelmed at the generosity each co-worker shared through such kind and personal gifts.

Two weeks later we attended a shower celebrating the welcoming of our little one with Jake's family and a few good friends who live in N. Indiana.

Leslee & Darcee (two former - note, not old - babysitter) plus their little ones + mom.

Alison & I

Part of the afternoon was an opportunity for guests to offer Jake & I a bit of, what we'll call, "advice". I have to share - some of the best words came from the little ones celebrating with us.

"Please make the baby laugh. It keeps them happy. When you feed the baby, smile a lot. Talk to the baby and read to the baby. Give the baby lots of hugs and kisses. Take lots of walks and look at flowers. Listen to the birds on your walk."

"A way to survive diaper changing - spray cologne or perfume on a sock, and tie it around your face! P.S. This is a technique my dad used when changing my little brother."

Leslee surprise us with a beautiful cake - such a special treat! If you're in the South Bend area and need a delicious AND beautiful cake - we have a referral for you!

Jake's aunt and two cousins were the ones to put on such a beautiful and welcoming shower where all felt welcome to celebrate the upcoming birth of our little one. We are so grateful for their kindness, generosity and intentionality at making us feel such peace about our new family and the support we have in this new journey.

I'm quite remiss that we were not more intentional at taking pictures that involved more of Jake's family - many from whom we received such special gifts. When we get a moment, we'll see if we can scrounge some up and share with each of you.

That evening we all went to visit Annie & Shorty - two dear friends of Jake's paternal grandma & grandpa. Shorty turns 100 on Aug. 14th and as smart as a whip with sharing stories dating back pre WWII and a sense of humor that would shake anyone's belly.

When we pulled into Jake's parents we saw this front end plate on a van parked across the street. Such sweet memories of when we were younger and told to get our "dupa's into bed!" came flooding back.