covid19- week 12- black lives MATTER

the world is heavy right now. the black lives matter movement is at an all-time high in the media, and while it's always been pressing, our people are showing up more than ever- protesting, listening, learning and using our voices FOR race equality and AGAINST hatred, bigotry, white privilege and the fear that our people of color face every single day. these are conversations that we've always included our children in; however, we can no longer move forward unless we all move forward together. we're working to teach our girls that racism and stereotypes are ever-present in our culture and that simply because of the color of our family's skin and the history we were born into, we're given privileges and safety measures that so many others are not. i wish for a different world for all of our children to grow up in, and a different future as they raise their own families. we know these changes begin at home- little by little, every single day. everyday the 5 of us vow to listen, learn, grow, and be lights of positivity and compassion. 

xoxo, 

-ivy

covid19- week 11- ELOISE TURNS 6!

covid week 11 was filled with fun, joys and memories! our bighearted, brainy, self-assured middle sister turned 6 & we celebrated all week long, both at home & in big cedar- one of our absolute favorite family getaways. we soaked in the time together and collectively wished to stay for an entire summer retreat. as the world continues to be filled with more unknowns than we've ever experienced, treasuring each day is where we're at.

auntie amy sent eloise a lip balm lab and oh my stars, this was right up her alley! betsy, self-proclaimed "lipstick girl", had to practice some major self-restraint. 

and great gramma helen surprised our reader with a new bookshelf. it's darling & eloise is quite proud :)

vintage paper dolls that meme found years ago and eloise is at just the right age to care for them-

hello, tablerock! a socially distant sixth birthday to remember- swimming, s'mores every night, sunshine and breathtaking views. i'm truly, truly grateful this week was able to happen. our hearts feel so full after a change of scenery and pace. 

lucy helped me to set up eloise's surprise celebration on the porch. she picked the flowers and arranged the decorations. when eloise came out, she asked "you really did all of this for me?" it was so sweet and simple. she told us "i feel really special". ultimately, that's my whole goal on earth. to let our children know how special they are and how important it is they share their God-given gifts for good in this world. 

our pandemic summer begins. 

xoxo,

-ivy