As this year comes to an end, I’ve looked back on all I’ve written about. It’s been a journey, as it always is, but there are a few key highlights when I read through my blog titles: my role as a mama, bringing another baby into this world and friendships. I’m going to take the lead from my friend Amy of Balanced Ames who has shared her year in review the past two years + post mine too. The themes that arose are spot on to what I feel I’ve really leaned into this year, and reading back through it brings it all back to life. It’s beautiful to have it all documented + shared with you.
2017 Year In Review
Becoming A Stay At Home Mom
It’s crazy to me that last year at this time I was making all the preparations to leave my job. I worked at a local health department after pursuing my public health graduate degree — There were so many things about that job I loved, yet I had a calling to be home more with my family + find my calling so to speak. I am really excited to share more about this because truly, I don’t think I fit the definition of a SAHM and what once was in this post has evolved. I’ve been working passionately on projects, freelance work, this blog (and one other thing I can’t wait to share!). Ultimately, I’m grateful for the balance and flexibility of the work I’m now doing because it is good for both me and my family.
The Lost Baby – A Chemical Pregnancy and Unspoken Miscarriage
I remember so clearly how nervous I was to post this and share our loss with the world. But, I was in awe of how emotionally healing it was for me + in complete thankfulness for all of you who reached out and offered words of support + prayers in such a time of grief. One moment of vulnerability turned into an outpouring of love. Thank you so, so much. It is my hope that sharing this story will offer comfort, support or encouragement to those who need it.
Journey to Baby No. 3
Our journey to having our third baby wasn’t the easiest, but we were SO DARN HAPPY to be able to share our good news with the world. There have been so many women reach out since I shared this journey echoing their own struggles to conceive or asking questions about our process. I am an open book + am sending all of you who want them positive baby vibes.
Real Life Lessons I’ve Learned About Being A Real Good Friend
This year, I’ve build new friendships + strengthened old ones and I have to say, it’s been such a breath of fresh air to have my people surrounding me during the best and worst times of my life. You certainly know I believe in supporting, empowering and loving on your friends, and I think I’ve been able to take and receive the definition of friendship to a new level. I have the strongest group of women around me than I ever have in my life right now and for that I am eternally grateful. It is my honor to call so many of you friends and trust me, I learn from your lead each and every day.
Welcome to the World, Rush Robert Boettcher!
Of course welcoming our handsome baby BOY to the world is the major highlight of the year. We all couldn’t be happier having him in our arms + family. The girls are absolutely the BEST big sisters!
How We Are Transitioning From 2-3 Kids
Here we are now, adjusting to life as a family of five + outnumbered in the parenting role. Most days are still filled with a bit of craziness, but also entirely filled with love. This ended up being one of the top read posts of the year — probably because you get both the mom AND dad perspective!
What a year – those themes (my mama role/balance, new baby in our life and friendships) were so very much what I lived this past year. Just take a scroll through all of the posts yourself to see. What I live, I share. ❤️
It’s truly been a blessing to share my heart, perspective and life here and I’m so thankful for all of you following along. You bring so much joy to my days — thank you, thank you. Wishing you all beautiful things in the New Year! And stay tuned, there are REALLY EXCITING things on the horizon for me…
Peace & love, friends! ✌?
XO