The South

A shot from Tuscaloosa News capturing the fully destroyed neighborhood of Forest Lake near where I lived in college.


I didn't lose a friend or family member when I could have. I didn't even know anyone who was injured. I wasn't even there myself. But the events of last week in Alabama have greatly saddended me. I am so blessed that my family and friends escaped unharmed, but I so sad for those who didn't. I'm sad for my adopted hometown, Tuscaloosa Alabama. A lot has been lost and it's something to be sad about. I didn't know anyone that died but I walked their streets, I went to the same stores, I ate at the same restaurants, I lived a similar life and had it happened 3 years ago it could have been me. It all makes me so homesick. I want to be there to comfort friends and to start picking up the pieces.

Just another reminder that there is only one constant, one thing we know will not be wiped away.

"For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love will not depart from you and my covenant of peace shall not be removed." Isaiah 54:10

God bless the recovery and healing.

Row Home Easter

I have a magnet Jenah gave me that says, "Friends are the family we create for ourselves".

And this Easter, I'm thankful for our friend family. Here are a couple of snapshots from this Easter at Jason and Haley's.

Row Home egg hunt for Lotta.

Memphis Street

Why, Hello Spring!

You know how much happier you are when you complete a really difficult task compared to when you complete an easy one? I feel like winter in Pennsylvania is just a little different from winter in Alabama. And needless to say, I have never been so happy to wecome spring! Spring comes later up here and the old saying "April showers bring May flowers" fits Phiadelphia exactly. Just about a week ago, the first sign of color appeared literally overnight. One day, I drove by this tree and it was brown, the next day it had burst into a big white ball! The cherry trees bloomed along the side of the river giving me hope that no, winter will not last forever. Then a few days later, the green decided to make an appearance. In most of the city, you still see just a vague green haze on the trees that will soon erupt with bright green leaves. It is still jacket weather, but hints of warmth pop in from time to time just to let me know it is coming. Hello Spring! Conrad Square, one block from my house.

Bringing a little Spring indoors.

The Bennett Trip

In March, I went home to meet Bennett for the first time. I went from cold and brown to warm and green. Ahh, it was great. And, as usual, I tried to soak up every moment with my kiddos. Here are a few pictures from the weekend. This is my home. Anyone wonder why I love it?

Meeting Baby Bennett!

Sibbling picture

The fun with the fireman's hat begins.

"What are those fishies' names?" Lily and Jonathan trying to figure it out.

Who is this little guy?

The twins close in.

Bella was running down the road with the wheelbarrow when I asked, "Bella, let me take a picure!" She stopped in her tracks, swung that wheelbarrow around and posed for the picture. Very funny.

And she's off!

Bennett came for a walk too.

Who could deny this face?

Spending the morning with Minnie Mouse.

April 4th

April 4th is my birthday, arguably the most important day of my life ;) I love April 4th. I love it!! I really love it!! I love breathing the April 4th air, looking at the April 4th sun, walking down the April 4th streets, doing my April 4th work.

It doesn't matter what I do on April 4th, it is always wonderful. There is something about having a day that you let make you completely happy that adds a spice to life.

This April 4th did not disappoint. From phone calls and texts to cake at work and walk through the neighborhood...I loved every minute. Indian for dinner was the icing on the cake.

Wednesday

Last minute tickets to the Phillies, then up the street to Pat's steaks. Best spontaneous Wednesday night in a while. And reason #127 of why I like living in Philly.