I was preparing to write this on the Sunday I went into labor but here I am as a mom of four just wanting to remember the week leading up to meeting our handsome new family member.

The entire week prior we had visitors showering us with love and gifts in anticipation for the new baby. The girls had gotten sick that following week and we stayed home to nurse colds and prepare for our little guy. We had friends bring us food so this momma could get some rest. With late night bathroom breaks, contractions and sick kiddos I was not getting much sleep.

We also received a new and unexpected member to the family. We had been without a dishwasher for a few weeks with no intention of replacing it or so I thought. After my husband heard my friend nearly pass out at the thought of me being without a dishwasher while very pregnant and having a newborn he took it upon himself to order us a break dishwasher. He came home and very pleased with himself said that my knew dishwasher would be arriving next week. I calmly asked what kind of dishwasher. He said the same one that broke. Now you definitely get what you pay for and the $300 dishwasher he paid for was not what I wanted. I wanted one that actually washed dishes. I never thought he would purchase a dishwasher without asking my opinion. I mow the lawn too and so would never buy a lawnmower without consulting him. He must have read my mood because after telling him that I was hoping we were saving up for a nice dishwasher he promptly cancelled the one he ordered and made a date with me that evening to shop for one online. Check out my love letter to my new dishwasher here.

I am part of a Catholic, homeschool community called Bread of Life. The group has been around for maybe 15 years as a way to communicate and fellowship with other homeschoolers. The group founders use to host baby showers to welcome and honor new babies and their mothers. We had planned for a shower for the moms that welcomed a baby in 2020 or were expecting soon. It was so fun to have that time with those sweet ladies. The hostesses spoiled us with gifts, food and beautiful prayers. We joined together to pray the glorious mysteries of the rosary and a divine mercy chaplet. It was such a sweet moment watching the babies play while we covered them in prayer.

So blessed by my homeschool community and I am so excited to be able to bless all those mommas expecting soon!

Blessings,

Venice.