{ pretty, happy, funny, real }

~ Capturing the context of contentment in everyday life ~

Every Thursday, at Like Mother, Like Daughter

{ pretty }
 

 

Even though we'll miss the cherry blossoms (ironically, we're usually too late!!) the magnolias are sure putting on a show for us! They are breathtaking.

 

I was treated to a tour of the monuments at nighttime. The scene is totally different. Yes, there are fewer people but the reverence, the quiet, the energy. It's all different. The quiet lends itself to more thought provoking images. The shadows stir up mystery and your mind wanders through the history and experience of it all.  This photo was taken while standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. A friend of mine had shared with me that this spot is one of her favorite man made spots to see at night, and now I know why.

 

 

 

We experienced so many beautiful sights, one of my all time favorites is the ones that show love shared. If I know one thing for sure, our vessels have been overflowing with love and gratitude for the family we are visiting here in DC. It's beautiful, selfless, enduring, and strong.

 

{ happy }

 

 

 

 

Kiki has been experiencing many facets of joy this past week. She has especially enjoyed being carried around, for miles, all over Washington, DC. Whether in the arms of Aunt Claire or in the Ergo on my back, this little lover, her arms and snuggles warmed me up even when the coldest winds were whipping around us.

 

This is Kiki's "neighborhooding" look. She had places to be and people to see.

 

Charlotte was chosen to be a contestant in a "game show" at the White House Easter Egg Roll. She won this adorable puppet and couldn't have been happier.

 

Happiness has come to us in many forms this week. Simply goofing off in the backseat of the car with my big kids proved to be a hilarious moment. Connecting with them is getting more and more challenging as their needs change, I'm always so grateful when a moment organically brings itself to us and we can just exist together, in joy and happiness and have fun!

 

{ funny }

 

 

This is a photo of my brother in law, Cameron, and my husband, Lee. The creation of this photo had the dining room roaring in laughter. Their faces matching perfectly, their hair lines, the eyebrows, the shape of their mouths. Genetics are truly amazing!

 

 

Charlotte thought putting Seri in the box would be funny, and she was right!

 

{ real }

 

The one thing that is truly real this week are the connections made and the bonds built between us all. The love is palpable. We are all so truly blessed.

 

 

Uncle Cam teaching Bella how to play Heart and Soul

 

Grandma Sally helping Bella and Charlotte prepare for the Easter Egg Roll

 

Aunt Claire, she is a Saint and can do no wrong in the eyes of the children.....and me.

 

Our second night in DC, when the rest of the family arrived, turned into an all out family jam session, complete with music, dancing, drumming, singing, and laughing. I was below the joy, holding our baby while she fell asleep but I experienced every bit of the happiness. It was truly a wonderful moment.

 

Another thing I know for sure is there is nothing more real than family.