oh hi

I can only imagine you've given up on me. But I am still here. We are still here. And I suppose no news is good news in our case, because we're doing well all this time. Our little girl has been growing up all this time. And we have been enjoying our happy little life all this time. I hate to promise that this entry is evidence of turning over a new leaf -- but everything in me needs a place to write again and the discipline to make time for it. Even when time is hard to be found. So, here goes.

At the beginning of this year, we had a sense that it would be a year of transition and preparation for What's Next (whatever that Next might be). It's a year of in-between and dreaming and anticipation of what's next for our family. And now here we are, preparing to go from Three to Four. Another little baby is on the way -- with an ETA of November 20th. And so it begins! The next stage for our little family.

Everyone always says the second pregnancy is different. And it's true. We are breathing easier this time. We are taking it as it comes this time. And we are distracted by a 20-month-old this time. It's a whole different experience not to be solely focused on your pregnancy -- but it's also refreshing in many ways. This second baby already feels caught up in the energy and routine of our family, coming along naturally and easily.

Pen has transformed into a little girl, almost overnight -- she is in no way a baby any longer -- but an independent, cheerful, chatty little girl. One of the most magical things about the second year is conversation. Pen has so many words that are now stringing together into sentences, thoughts, requests and ideas. It is delightful to be able to have a conversation with our daughter. We suddenly have this window into how her little mind works and the intricacies of her personality. We look forward to getting to know her better every single day. And every single day, she surprises us.

So, that's it for us. At least for now. Look for more updates soon. Til then, lots of love.