As anyone will tell you, having a newborn isn't the easiest phase of life. Precious and awe-inspiring? Absolutely. Restful? Not quite. We were incredibly blessed to have my parents with us for three weeks before and after Brooks' birth, but when they left it was that overwhelming feeling of it was just . . . us. Us and this very tiny, very needy baby. Thankfully we are at a point in our lives and work where Baxter is able to be home with me and the babe for part of the day so we can take turns doing those really luxurious things like eating or sleeping throughout the day. 

At one point I began to feel spoiled and even lazy in a way that I so much help from my precious husband, when Baxter pointed out that we don't exactly have family nearby to lend a hand. Seeing as how this is our first baby, I don't know what it's like to have Aunt so and so run over to keep the baby for a date night, or a mommy's play group for fellowship and stroller fitness. I have seen how easy it could be to slip down the slope of loneliness in this somewhat isolating phase of our lives, but instead, I choose to focus the faces and love we were given as seen in these pictures. And this isn't even everyone that has come to see our little guy! Sure, I've had my lonely days as moms all around the world might, but I know that the relationships represented below are a sweeter blessing than any Mommy & Me whatever could ever be.

Is our life different, and sometimes difficult? Sure, but whose isn't? Richer and fuller because of the people and experiences represented here? You better believe it.