Beach's Birthday (Low Key Version)

Beach’s birthday always falls during such a busy time of year. He wanted to keep things low key this year, so we found a few smaller ways to celebrate him.
  

We had his parents over for dinner, and Donna showed up decked out in a giant gift bag. She also made him an amazing cake.

 The grill master was back at it, smoking a brisket that was, as always, delicious.

Then it was time for gifts, followed by cake... 

and a side of silliness. 

 

 

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During a family lunch with my side of the family, we celebrated both Beach and my dad, whose birthdays fall in the same week.

 

They explained how they were going to share the cake and each blow out just half.

 

They are actually pretty similar in that they both love a good recliner nap...

but they woke up in time for presents. 

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That evening, Beach, the kids, and I went out to dinner, where he got some awesome handmade cards.

 

We attempted a family photo, but my car alarm started going off, so we ended up with not-so-flattering shots. Still, I’m glad we captured it.

 

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 Beach and I are not big on gifts, so silly me forgot to give him the little surprises I had gotten him. They ended up being a bit belated.

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The following weekend, we grabbed dinner with some friends. With our busy schedules, we don’t get to see each other as often as we used to, so times together feel extra special. I somehow managed not to get any group photos, which is very on brand for me when we are together, but I did snag a couple of Beach opening his gift when we arrived.

The only other pictures I managed to get.

While nothing can top last year’s birthday of riding horses down into Bryce Canyon, I’m grateful we were able to celebrate Beach in a simple, low-key way that felt just like him. I’m so thankful for Beach and for his humble heart that loves me so well. It is one of my greatest gifts to walk through life with him.

The Highs of Easter!

There were some challenges this Easter, along with some really special moments. Shiloh had hoped to go to church with us, but when we tried to wake her, she wasn’t feeling well again. While she had really wanted to go to church, mornings are always not good for her physically. We didn’t get a photo at church this year since she wasn’t able to join us, but I did snap a quick one when we saw my parents as they were heading in.

Focusing on the good...Afterward, we all gathered for an early Easter dinner at my parents’ house. We were able to do our traditional resurrection rolls, this time with Josiah included, which made it even more fun. Lauren took on the role of paparazzi, so we had plenty of photos.  I ended up keeping most of them, as I want to remember all of Josiah's cute expressions and times with his cousins!

We were so glad the grand Lovelands were able to join us. A full house meant getting a little creative with seating, but it made the day feel even more special.

Then it was time for the egg hunt. My parents use different colors for each grandchild, which makes it more fun and keeps it from getting too competitive. It was such a beautiful day.

Ready Set Go!

Of course, we had to grab some family photos, including a full grandchild picture.

Josiah coming for you!

They revealed a surprise, under the dress shirt was Josiah's first Loveland t-shift!

He is currently into fake laughing.

Sisters!

Got us laughing!

My Bestie...

I love being silly with her.

My beautiful girls (I'm not as short today due to the wedge shoes).

More real life photo...

Zoe wanted some more photos...

The kids had a great time examining their loot afterward.

Some of grammy's prizes didn't fit in eggs she there was a belated trade off.

I’m so thankful we were all able to be together to celebrate such a special day. Christ the Lord has risen indeed! It is a reminder that even in the hard and unexpected moments, there is still victory, hope, and new life.