The circle of life

Today is the first day in quite awhile that I have been able to stay in my pajamas and relax. Life has been chaotic during this season of change. Autumn has always been my favorite time of year and this year will be marked with several major life changes. The circle of life has been a profound phenomenon that has played itself out to this family as we said goodbye to my Grandfather and Buddy (the dog) and are in the process of preparing for the arrival of the newest family member Emilia. Although there has been a great sadness surrounding this family over the passing of one of our dearest members, there has also been a lot of reminiscing and celebrating a life that was both profound and full of love in such a unique way. There is something special about the quite moments when an entire family congregates around one of its members with no plans or expectations, just to be there. We love you Grandpa and will always keep your memory close to our hearts. You have taught my little family so many things about life and will always be one of our greatest examples and influences.






And Buddy. What do I say about Buddy. He was one of the most stubborn dogs I have ever come across and yet I could not have imagined my childhood without him. He was a faithful member of of our family for over 15 years and will be missed greatly. He was our comfort, comic relief, and couch partner and would never pass down an opportunity to go outside to smell absolutely every bush, tree, rock, pebble, and piece of bark he passed...oh Smelly.

At the same time we are mourning for those we have lost we are also starting to celebrate the arrival of our newest family member. Our dear Emilia seems determined to make an early appearance which is welcomed by all of us. I am 3 cm dilated already and we technically have 3 weeks left to go. She continues to move and dance inside my belly but has also started to feel very heavy. I am no longer working as of today and am just enjoying the quiet time with Connor at home. Connor is so excited to meet his baby sister. He has started singing to her and loves to tell me how he will rock her to sleep and let her play with his toys (if she doesn't break them of course). He also can't wait to play tag with her...that might be interesting at first.

So here we sit and wait with mixed emotions of pure sadness and pure joy. This demonstration of the workings of the circle of life have taught us even more how to be thankful for past life, current life, and new life. Once again we have seen first hand why every moment with our loved ones should be cherished and why holding onto regrets is so pointless.