Sakura Bloom Sling Diaries Vol. IV: Confidence

Dear Ava,

"No woman is a more vibrant instrument in the hands of the Lord than a woman of God who is thrilled to be who she is." --Sheri Dew

Thinking back over different stages of my life...I can remember times when I wasn't "thrilled" to be who I was. My confidence was fragile--whether I was struggling with my physical appearance, not believing in my ability to accomplish my goals or try new things, or not having confidence in my spirit being able to get through hard times. I hope you come to know Ava, before I really did, that being confident in your own skin and your body's abilities is awesome, but it's not everything. That no matter how many times you try and fail, you can always always always try again! And that through different stages in life you will be stretched far beyond what you're comfortable with, but I promise that you'll learn through it all and come out stronger and more confident if you remember that you're not alone.

As your mom, I am with you and your sweet brother all the time, and yet I can feel so lonely at times. Honestly, motherhood has thrown more blows at my confidence in myself than I'd like to admit. But Ava, your unconditional love for me--your trust and your forgiving, little heart--is what always builds it back up. You and your brother are daily evidences that I can have an impact on the world. Takes me breath away just thinking about it!

You'll be two this March, and you're already miss independent...as long as you feel comfortable in your surroundings. ;) When we're out and about, you are passionate about either being worn in your sling or walking and exploring all by yourself. I appreciate both! Aves, I think that wearing you from the start has been a beautiful way to instill in you a comfort and confidence that you are loved, which has helped you feel good about venturing out and trying things on your own. I'll wear you as often as you'll let me. Seeing the world from similar points of view never loses its magic. It sure added to the magic we experienced at the Ice Castles in Midway this past weekend!

And back to the quote I shared with you at the beginning...I am thrilled to be your mom Ava. I am thrilled to be your sweet Daddy's wife. I am thrilled to be a sister and a friend and a woman of God who makes mistakes but tries to learn from them. And I am thrilled to be able to watch you become an instrument in His hands. I love you Ava, always. 

Love,
Mom

** I'm wearing Ava in a Simple Linen Sakura Bloom sling, in silver. Thanks to my sweet Adam for taking these pictures. :)

Elsa's Castle

After finally seeing 'Frozen' last week (well, Adam and the kids had seen it, but it was my first time) and falling in love with the story and music, going to the Ice Castles in Midway was a perfect follow-up adventure! Felt like we were visiting Elsa's castle. :) We had been a few years ago, and it was even better than we remembered. So fun to have experienced it at night time, all a-glow, and then in the day. The kids had their sassy pants on and needed to take a break to warm up (and cool down if you know what I mean) in the car, then we went back in, ready to explore! Loved walking though icy blue tunnels, a gorgeous courtyard of white, and even finding Olaf!! Such a fun winter wonderland. :) 

^^ We saw Olaf!! ^^

^^ Brooks was sad to go, he would've camped out there if we let him! ;) ^^

Sunday in the Mountains

A few Sundays ago, Adam and I decided to go for a spontaneous day trip to his family's cabin, just the kids and us. It was gorgeous and we were so glad to be able to enjoy the last of the fall beauty up there! Upon arriving, we hoped in the jeep parked up there, and the bumpy ride up the mountain made for some good laughs. :) We soaked up the view of the valley, it was breath taking to say the least. Brooks could've stayed up there all day, just throwing rocks and saying, "Whoa! So far!!" :) Ava stayed cozy in my sling. And I stole some kisses from my sweetheart. All of that combined with the fresh mountain air, it was good for the soul. And on our drive back to the cabin, we spotted the bull moose (after which they named their cabin "Moose Mountain Lodge")! The kids loved it, and I'm wishing I had captured their farewells on video, "Bye Moose! Byyyye!" We ended our day on a sweet note by playing around in the newly built treehouse, and sipping on hot cocoa on the back porch. It was one of those days that wasn't planned, but turned out to be one I'll never forget. 

That's how I think it often happens--our best adventures are the ones we never planned on, but treasure the most.