a little, two-year reflection

It's been two years (and a few days) since our wedding day, and, quite honestly, it feels much longer than that. Maybe it was the two preganacies in a row, the natural disaster (Sandy), intense ministry-related situations, close relationship fall outs...all this and more PLUS learning how to live life together. Not just functioniong together, but continually, romantically persuing and serving each other. It's been beautiful, exhausting, difficult and thrilling all at once. 

We've seen the worst and the best in each other over these past few years. We've said some of the meanest words, and some of the most up-lifting, heart-warming words to each other.  Any married couple will tell you the same thing. The goal is not to avoid conflict or to ignore it, but to find specific strategies that help to resolve the daily conflicts that will inevitably arise. And by our God's overwhelming supply of mercy and grace, we are finding those strategies while falling more and more in love as time passes.

Christopher has to put up with a lot when it comes to living life with me. I steal the blankets at night, I move all of his important papers that pile up on his bureau, I leave gum wrappers in cups, I make us late in the mornings (pregnant or not), I have a habit of knocking into his legs under the table while we're eating, I steal food off of his plate (I'm Italian, he's English), I don't always look at washing instructions for his J. Crew clothes.... etc.

 I could go ahead and list his flaws, but I'll refrain. ;)

It's funny how much we've both fought and laughed over our silly, little habits. We're crazy about each other, but we can easily drive each other crazy. That's usually how it goes, right? 

Laughter helps. It's so important in a marriage (in all of life, really). Espeically laughing at yourself. It's amazing how sour a conversation turns when I get into defensive mode... when my I take myself so seriously, and my importance level (in my head) flies through the roof. It's ugly. Pride and self-importance are ugly, and it's the best recipe for an ugly situation. 

Simply put, when his desires become more important than my own (and vice versa), we can't lose. 

letter to Jameson

Jameson Clive, 

You've had life for about 26 weeks now... kicking quite vigorously, but not causing me too much discomfort. You made me dreadfully sick for about 12 weeks (much like your sister), but I am grateful that it only lasted that long. These days, I need at least 9-10 hours of sleep each night in order to function. I have a hard time breathing through my nose at night, but there are worse things. You've been enjoying a lot of green smoothies, almond-flour oatmeal cookies and chicken salad recently. I hope you enjoy food as much as Elleanora does... I often wonder what you will have in common, and how you will be different from one another. Will you be just as or more strong-willed and determined? Or will you be a little more relaxed? Maybe you will look more Italian than Irish or vice versa.. I just can't wait to meet you. 

We don't have to do too much to prepare for your arrival, considering the fact that your sister is only 16 months older than you. People have been so kind with lending us some clothes and gadgets for you. You're already so loved.
The first picture (above) is the first thing I ever purchased for you, and the sweater was originally Elleanora's from your Auntie Ashley and Uncle DT. They were smart in giving her something that you could wear too (even though no one knew you were alive yet when we opened it!)

In other news, your daddy is going to pick up a Volkswagen minivan this Saturday for all of us (!!!); I didn't think our family would grow to four this soon, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I can't wait for you to meet your big sister; she might try to beat you up for awhile, but I have a feeling you'll be the best of friends. My heart and hands will be very full with both of you. I love you, sweet boy, and I pray for you often.

Kisses,
Your Mama