☀️ The Last Swim
Liam wrapped up his final swim class for the summer. It was bittersweet. Wednesdays won’t look the same until fall. I didn’t expect to feel so much watching him climb out of the pool one last time, water dripping from his curls. He’s grown braver in the water, and in many ways, so have I.
💍 Nine Years Married
We celebrated nine years of marriage this month. No fancy dinners or big plans—just us, a quiet afternoon at the mall, sitting side by side in massage chairs and grabbing Chick-fil-A for dinner. We’re saving up for a bigger adventure, but honestly, this quiet kind of celebration felt like us, too. Familiar, warm, content.
💤 A Shift in My Season
A subtle shift occurred this month—I began a new chapter in my care. I’ve been extra tired lately, needing more rest than usual. My body seems to be catching up on the naps I skipped when Liam was a newborn. Back then, I was trying to be everything all at once. These days, I’m choosing to let myself rest. It’s not always easy. But it’s necessary. And holy. And healing.
🎡 Fourth of July at the Fair
We experienced our first Butler Fair together for the Fourth of July. Liam rode a carousel, flew in a helicopter ride, and smiled with wide eyes the entire time. It was scorching, but we found shade and shared a strawberry lemonade slushy while watching the tractor pull—still not sure what that was about, but the crowd loved it. The day ended with fireworks from Kita’s office downtown, our son and his little friend standing at the window, faces lit with wonder. It felt like time slowed just for that moment.
🕯️ Mom Dates + Play Dates
I got to be Christina, not just Mama. My best friend and I did a candle-making workshop—wine, wax, laughter, stories. I loved the creativity of it, and the dinner after (pasta with crab and zucchini!) felt like such a treat.
We did the boys' playdate another day—water play in the sun, giggles and splashes. It was joy in its purest form.
⚾ First Baseball Game
Liam went to his first baseball game at Kita’s company picnic. He tried cotton candy for the first time, and we shared chicken tenders and fries as the sun began to set. Watching him take in the sights, sounds, and flavors of summer was everything.
🏁 Vintage Cars + Sweet Kindness
We visited the Grand Prix for the first time—vintage cars, sun on our skin, and a surprise lunch gifted to us by a stranger in line. It was such a kind moment, one that reminded me how unexpected grace finds its way in.
🎾 Family Tennis at the Park
We gave Liam a tennis ball and racket, and Kita and I tried to rally on the court. We mostly just ran after the ball, laughing the whole time. It was chaotic and uncoordinated—but in the best way.
📚 Library Dates
We visited the library for “Giggles and Wiggles,” where Liam danced and popped bubbles with joy. Afterward, we grabbed lunch and ate together in the car—simple, sweet, just us. A mini mommy-and-me moment I’ll keep in my heart.
🧘🏾♀️ Still Trying
My wellness journey is still… a journey. Some days I eat well, move my body, and feel proud. Other days I feel foggy and slow. But I’m still showing up. Still trying. And I think that counts for something.