You are Blessed.

This past Sunday, Brandon gave Kate a blessing. 

It was sweet and beautiful, 

with wonderful promises of love, kindness, and a forever family. 

I will never forget the joy I felt as I watched the man I love 

hold our sweet baby girl in her little white dress. 

Afterwards, our loved ones gathered in our home to celebrate Kate and enjoy some brunch together. Before we blessed the food, I thanked everyone for supporting us and our little family. We have been on the receiving end of so much kindness and service- even before baby Kate arrived. I especially wanted the women of my family to know how grateful I am for them. If there is one thing I want Kate to understand as she grows up, it is the long legacy of faithful, strong, service-oriented women she comes from, both Shaws and Johnsons, who love their families and teach, by example, that

WE CAN DO HARD THINGS. 

Along with Brandon, they literally have been the Lord's hands in helping me get through the past 6 weeks. It makes me teary as I think about the many hours of feeding, rocking, changing, playing, cleaning, driving, watching, shopping, praying and encouraging they have selflessly gifted my children and I.

I love the women in my life...and even more, I know they love me. 

I am blessed.

We love you sweet baby Kate.